Out with the old and in with the new - After fifty years Formby Bridge gets new railings

Work is now well and truly under way on Formby Bridge for the much needed replacement railings and Cllrs Denise Dutton and Simon Jamieson couldn't be happier.

The railings have been in need of replacement for many years but neither Sefton nor Formby Parish Council have been in a financial position to fund such a large project. However, after much negotiating Cllr. Dutton has managed to obtain the release of money paid by Developers - known as S106 monies - to fund the railings. This is money that is levied on Developers for use in the area where new developments occur and has built up over a period of time.

Cllr Dutton said "I am absolutely thrilled that the railings are being funded through the release of these funds as this effectively means it has not cost the residents of Formby a penny extra of council tax! Furthermore Cllr Simon Jamieson has managed to secure agreement with the contractors, Dowhigh that the scrap value of the old railings will be donated to a local charity which will be worth approximately £600".

Here you can see the old railings next to the new ones

The new railings are costing approximately £46,500 including the donation to charity.

The railings on the bridge have been in place for approximately 50 years and were in a dangerous condition due to their dilapidated state. The replacement railings will not only greatly enhance the look of the area but will also make it much safer for people using the bridge.

Denise went on to say, "Special thanks has to be given to Ronnie Stafford from Sefton Council's Management Team and Brian Moray from Dowhigh who worked with myself and Cllr Jamieson on the design and construction of these railings - there help was invaluable. What a fantastic first impression of Formby now though!".

Story source: Cllr Denise Dutton