Upgrades to Longport station’s footbridge have been halted despite the fact that it was meant to be finished in September.

Network Rail and contractor Story have been upgrading the bridge as part of a £1,4 million investment.

However, in Autumn, the work was delayed by manufacturing issues, specifically the sides of the bridge and the welding quality of the balustrades and parapets.

They are working with the suppliers to rectify the issue as soon as possible; however, a date for this has yet ot be set.

The diversionary walking route will remain in place with improved lighting to be installed.

 “We’re very sorry that rail users and local people will have to wait longer than expected for Longport station’s footbridge upgrade to be completed, and the inconvenience this causes for journeys due to the diversionary walking route.

“It’s our duty to carry out stringent tests to make sure all building work on our railway is done to the right standards. Regrettably, we’ve taken the tough decision to have some of the bridge panels remade because they did not meet what was required. We’re working closely with our contractors to get this resolved as quickly as possible and thank people for their continued patience.”

Patrick Vallely, Network Rail head of buildings and civils