Delayed M3 footbridge opens after concrete setback

Surrey Heath has celebrated the opening of a new footbridge spanning the M3 between junctions 3 and 4 after the project saw setbacks in its concrete hardening process. 

The Bagshot Heath footbridge was demolished in 2023 after engineers discovered issues with its ‘ability to withstand collisions and the risk posed from high vehicles’.

The replacement bridge was expected to be lifted into place in April earlier this year, but it was delayed when one of the concrete abutments did not harden correctly.

The new bridge – at 63m long, 4m wide and weighing nearly 100 tonnes – was lifted into place in July, three months after it was originally scheduled. National Highways also installed mesh and anti-climb measures to make the new crossing safe for public use.

National Highways project manager, Nick Axford, said: ‘We know how important this bridge is to the community and while demolishing the previous structure caused inconvenience, the new bridge is safer, wider, stronger and more suitable for cyclists – and we hope it will be enjoyed by everyone.’

At the official opening of the new bridge, the Mayor of Surrey Heath, Councillor Louise Ashbery, added: ‘I know that local residents and groups have been looking forward to this walkway being reinstated as it provides such a useful link for walkers and cyclists. I am sure it will bring a lot of joy for many years to come.’