EVESHAM'S Abbey Bridge will re-open to traffic on Monday, March 10 at 3pm.

The contractor working on the bridge, Hochtief, has confirmed that two lanes of the important link across the River Avon will re-open from March 10 as work on the revised programme has progressed well enough to be in position to be opened to vehicles.

Hochtief had been working to a March 31 date to re-open the bridge to traffic, and is still on track for a full reopening by this date.

Cllr John Smith, county council cabinet member for highways and member for Evesham north west, said: "I understand the enormous relief it will be for traders and residents to get their link into the town back open. 

"We have been working tirelessly with contractors Hochtief to re-open this crucial link into our historic town to traffic as the earliest possible time. 

"I'd like to, once again, thank everyone in our community that's backed our town and its traders over these last few challenging months. Your support has been truly appreciated and I'm sure this will continue in the months and years ahead."

To avoid any confusion and potential issues with safety the diversion route through the town will remain in place and continue to be staffed to help traffic flow until all three lanes of the Abbey Bridge and Viaduct are open.

Both the County Council funded discounted offers of three hours parking for 20p in the town's Wychavon District Council short and long-stay car parks and half-price bus travel to and from Evesham town centre, will continue and remain in place until March 31.

The temporary pedestrian bridge will remain open ensuring the commitment to pedestrian and cyclist access throughout the scheme is kept.

For the latest information about the project please visit www.worcestershire.gov.uk/abbeybridge  or follow the @worcscc County Council Twitter account and look out for #AbbeyBridge.