REPAIRING Halstead’s controversial abandoned footbridge is a ‘high priority’ for the town’s new county councillor.

Joanne Beavis was elected to replace the late Joe Pike and is eager to see the footbridge between Riverside Court and Sainsbury’s car park repaired.

Portway bridge has been closed since 2014, but a meeting was held at the end of May between Essex Highways, Halstead Town Council, Mrs Beavis, and representatives from Sainsbury’s.

Mrs Beavis said: “In my new position, it is poignant, and it is a big issue in Halstead. The meeting was all very positive, and it was constructive which is a good sign. We have all agreed that we would like to find a result.”

Repair work to the bridge is likely to cost upwards of £80,000 and sources of possible funding are being explored.

Ownership of the bridge has caused more hiccups, but it appears that although the Crown Estate own the bridge, they are happy for work to be done but will not fund repairs.

Mrs Beavis believes that as the town grows the bridge will become more important.

She added: “When you think about the future shaping of the town, the new Lidl opening, the location of residents around the town, it is a significant passageway.

“There is no doubt it would be used a lot, and would help increase footfall through the town.

“This is a significant step in the right direction, but it is important that all parties involved are on board, and work together to find a resolve.

“It is of a high priority for me, and that is because clearly it is of a high priority for residents. If you look at residents in Riverside Court, that is their main link into town.

“And then if you consider any elderly or potentially disabled residents, they shouldn’t have to take a long route when a simple one is there.

“I always say the best solutions are found locally and in partnership and that is what we will try and do here.”

All parties are due to meet again in September.