THE cost of building a new footbridge in Evesham has more than trebled since it was first approved three years ago.

Worcestershire County Council’s cabinet will be told on Thursday (October 24) that Hampton Bridge will cost £16 million.

When councillors first agreed to go ahead with the scheme in 2021, the estimated cost was £4.26m, plus an extra £1m for links to local walking and cycling routes.

A cabinet report blames the increase on “significant inflation in the construction sector over the past three years due to a number of factors including Covid 19 and the War in Ukraine.

“This has resulted in an increase in the cost of fuel, labour and materials, notably steel.

“In addition to this, the design changes necessary to ensure that the bridge will be accessible in flood conditions through the provision of an extended span over the flood plain have increased costs.

“The construction cost of the scheme is currently being finalised.”

READ MORE: Decision made on Evesham's Hampton Bridge project

Some £12.8m has already been allocated to the bridge project from the council’s capital spending programme, with £3.7m of this coming from developers via Section 106 agreements.

The report recommends a further £4.6m is transferred from integrated block funding - money given to councils by the government for transport schemes.

It also says the use of compulsory purchase orders may be necessary if agreements can’t be reached with landowners.

Highways chief Marc Bayliss is recommending that cabinet press on with the bridge plans.

He said: “The project will create a vital sustainable transport link between the west side of the river in Hampton and the east side in Evesham, offering a much-needed alternative to vehicular travel.

“This new route will cater to pedestrians, cyclists, and users of all ages and abilities, including children and individuals with limited mobility.

“It is designed to promote walking, cycling, and wheeling, reducing reliance on cars and easing congestion on local roads, especially during peak travel times and large events.

“Once completed, the bridge will not only benefit local residents but also boost tourism in Evesham by providing improved access to one of the town’s most important visitor sites.

“It is anticipated that the improved accessibility will attract more visitors of all ages and abilities, further enhancing Evesham’s appeal as a tourism destination.

“The bridge is also expected to support local businesses by encouraging visitors to stay in nearby accommodations or park further from the town centre and walk, helping to alleviate traffic and parking pressures during festivals and events.

“While the project has made significant progress and planning permission has been granted, challenges remain in securing the land needed for the bridge.

“Efforts to negotiate the acquisition of land and necessary rights are ongoing, but in order to stay on track with the construction timeline, the cabinet is now considering a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) and Public Path Creation Orders.

“These legal measures will be discussed in a report presented at the upcoming cabinet meeting on Thursday.”