New public footbridges at Cuckoos Hollow in Werrington have been officially opened.
The council announced last year that three bridges in the area were to close after inspections revealed that the structures had deteriorated more quickly than anticipated and were posing a risk to public safety.
Work to remove the bridges adjacent to Baron Court, Lakeside and Welbourne took place over the previous 12 months, with replacement structures installed at Baron Court and Lakeside.
The two new bridges were officially opened by Councillor Angus Ellis at a special ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by dignitaries, officers and staff held today (Friday 16 May 2025).
The bridges will be a significant improvement on the previous structures in terms of materials and size, providing improved access for users and enhanced longevity.
Funding for the scheme was provided by the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority and the council's capital grants for highways projects.
Councillor Angus Ellis, Peterborough City Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Transport said: “I am absolutely delighted that the new bridges are now open for the public to use and would like to thank everyone involved in this project, which has been delivered effectively and on schedule.
“I would also like to thank residents and ward councillors for their patience and support with this project. The new bridges will benefit residents and visitors to the natural habitat of Cuckoos Hollow for many years to come, enhancing what is already a much-loved and popular area.
“As the project progressed, it unfortunately became evident that the budgets originally allocated for the works were not to enough to cover replacing all three bridges. However, we are continuing to explore other funding options with a view to installing a third bridge in future and other potential schemes for this area."
Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Paul Bristow said: “I understand how frustrating it has been for local people to be without these bridges. They connected communities either side of Cuckoo’s Hollow for years. For some, their absence has caused huge inconvenience.
“That is why I am so pleased that the bridges are now being replaced, helped by investment from the Combined Authority. Cuckoo’s Hollow is special. As well as supporting the residents who live close by, these bridges are important for everyone in Peterborough who enjoys the space.
“We now need the third bridge open. I shall support councillors and the team at Peterborough City Council to deliver this.”