A FOOTPATH in Gillingham is to close to allow footbridge repair work to be carried out.

An emergency closure will be in place on the route between The Square and Waitrose – footpath N64/84 – from November 14.

Pedestrians will be prohibited from proceeding along the footpath for a distance of around 140 metres – between A and B on the map pictured.

“The notice is needed to comply with Health and Safety Regulations which require the provision of safe working areas and to minimise likelihood of danger to Highway Users,” a notice of the closure said.

The closure will remain in place for six months, although it is anticipated the works will be completed by November 25.

“This notice will enable Dorset Council Highways to repair the bridge over the river,” it added.

An alternative route is shown in blue on the map.