Work on a new £130,000 bridge on the Island has finally finished.

The new purpose-built bridge at Barton's Point Coastal Park in Sheerness runs between the park and the Queenborough Lines.

It was commissioned by Swale council after the old bridge was irreparably damaged.

A temporary bridge was put in place but the birds refused to fly over it or walk around it.

The saga began in August 2019 when the original heavy-duty wooden bridge was condemned when council workers discovered it was rotten and no longer safe.

A temporary floating structure was fitted in February last year at a hire cost of £365 a week to Swale council – total cost £21,000 – before it was ditched in April this year.

Cllr Julian Saunders, cabinet member for environment on the council, said: "The new bridge at Barton’s Point coastal park is now in place.

“We knew we would need a specialist contractor to build and install the new bridge, and that it would take time. However, we are delighted with the new bridge. It was worth the wait.

“The Queenborough Lines are a scheduled ancient monument, so the new bridge had to be custom-made and approved by Historic England.

“We want to thank everybody for their patience while we worked to improve the coastal park and protect the wildlife and historic significance of the area.”

Cllr Eddie Thomas, deputy cabinet member for environment at the council, added: “The old hardwood iroko bridge was installed more than 25 years ago, and it was time for an upgrade.

“The new bridge is 31 metres of structural steel with a deck and rail design made from Ekki, a durable marine timber with a 30-year service life. The foundation of the bridge was also designed not to disturb the ground of the historic Queenborough Lines.

“As well as protecting the ground, it meant we didn’t have to do any excavation work and could install the bridge and reinstate the footpath quickly, allowing people to enjoy the coastal park this summer.”

Read more: All the latest news from Sheerness