WORK to construct a new footbridge at Thornaby Railway Station is underway.

The existing 125 year old bridge is due for replacement so Stockton Council contracted Balfour Beatty Construction Services to remove it last weekend and build a new one.

The £1.1m project is funded by Network Rail, Stockton Council and Tees Valley Metro.

Stockton Council’s cabinet member for regeneration and transport, Councillor Mike Smith, said: “We know the footbridge is valued by people who live and work in Thornaby as it not only helps people access the station, it is also an important link between north Thornaby and Old Thornaby.

"However, recent structural surveys have revealed that it is in need of replacement so I am really pleased that we are now in a position to construct a new one.”

The new bridge will be complete and open by October.

Meanwhile, work is also underway creating a new £2.7m library and customer service centre at nearby Billingham, also funded by Stockton Borough Council. It's hoped the new service centre, which will also house Billingham Town Council, will open early next year.