The rebuild of the Black Lane footbridge is expected to begin 'soon'.

Cheshire East Council has shared an update on the works taking place to rebuild the bridge which connects Hurdsfield with Middlewood Way and the Hibel Road Tesco superstore.

The existing bridge has been shut for many months now, having been closed for safety reasons.

While the detailed design of the replacement bridge is finalised, Cheshire East Council say they are 'reviewing funding and programme availability' to confirm when the bridge replacement works will take place.

That comes despite the council having previously stated that funds had been allocated within the 2026/27 highways programme.

Councillor Mark Goldsmith, Cheshire East Council's cabinet member for highways and transport said: "We have completed the initial design for the replacement Black Lane footbridge and are now working on the detailed plans.

"This includes working with utility companies to ensure the bridge can be safely demolished and rebuilt. We expect to start manufacturing the new bridge components soon.

"Following inspections and ongoing assessments, we are moving forward with the next stage to deliver a new footbridge in our 2026/2027 highways programme. In doing so, we will collaborate with utility providers.

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"We understand concerns about the condition of the site. As part of the construction works, the area will be cleared of overgrown vegetation and cleaned before it is reopened to ensure it remains accessible for footpath users.

"We would like to thank residents and regular users of the route for their continued patience while the design phase progresses."