Orbit Footbridge to Close Temporarily for Refurbishment Following Funding Changes

A council has announced the temporary closure of a pedestrian bridge requiring “vital” improvements, following the government’s withdrawal of funding. Reading Borough Council stated that the Orbit Footbridge, situated behind Queen’s Road car park, is scheduled to close starting 20 December. The council advised residents to utilize “well-lit public highway routes” as alternatives. According to the council, the bridge, constructed around 1990, has experienced deterioration over time. The Department for Transport (DfT) confirmed that new funding, announced on Friday, ensures the refurbishment project will proceed. The council indicated that the bridge’s wooden decking boards require replacement, and its metal components need repainting. During the period of closure, residents are advised to use alternative paths like Duke Street, where signed diversions will be established. The council mentioned its communication with the University of Reading, noting the bridge’s popularity among students traveling into town. The authority has estimated a requirement of £1.5 million for the refurbishment and for Phase 7 of the Kennetside retaining wall programme. This necessary work was previously part of a broader two-year, £4 million investment dedicated to bridges and other structures throughout Reading, which also encompassed the replacement of the King’s Meadow footbridge. Karen Rowland, lead councillor for environmental services and community safety, stated that the work was planned for completion “as soon as possible” once funding became available. She commented, “It is obviously a disappointment that the scheduled refurbishment and repair of Orbit Footbridge has had to be postponed.” She added, “In the interim with the protection and safety of our residents and pedestrians being our primary concern we’ve taken the regrettable decision to close the footbridge.” Previously, the government had announced an allocation of £2,770,000 in additional road-maintenance funding for Reading for the 2025/2026 fiscal year.