A GRADE II-listed bridge over the River Wye will be closed to pedestrians and cyclists while restoration works are completed, despite previous suggestions that a public right of way could be maintained.

Gloucestershire County Council says the Tintern Wireworks Bridge, which lies on the border of Gloucestershire and Monmouthshire between Tintern and Brockweir, is in need of "significant repairs", which detailed study has revealed are "essential".

The works, which are due to be completed by October 2022, will include the full timber deck being removed and replaced with a steel deck with a "timber-look finish".

The structure will also be strengthened with new box beams to replace the existing corroding steel infrastructure, while the masonry supports will be repointed to extend their life.

Monmouthshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, Cllr Jane Pratt said: "We support Gloucestershire Council’s difficult decision to bring forward the repair works to the Wireworks Bridge. While we recognise the inconvenience this will bring, we wish to see the bridge safe, restored to its former glory and re-opened as quickly as possible."