First picture of the Tadcaster footbridge – as engineers use pontoons to inspect stonework

This is a solid sign that divided Tadcaster could soon be joined together again.

The town was spilt when parts of its old stone bridge collapsed in the Christmas floods. The first plan for a temporary footbridge was dashed when Sam Smith’s Brewery refused permission for it to be placed on its land.

Earlier this month North Yorkshire County Council revealed plans to build a temporary footbridge downstream of the existing bridge.

This would be accessed from Selby District car park on the east side and lead on to public land on the west. The access path will then lead through Tadcaster Albion’s car park.

Now the first part of the footbridge has arrived on the banks of the Wharfe.

Work to put the bridge into place was due to begin on Friday, although a county council spokesman did warn that the high winds from Storm Gertrude might hamper the operation.

Meanwhile, pontoons have been lowered into place on the water next to the shattered stone bridge.

These will allow engineers to take a closer inspection of the damage and make plans for repairs.

The Government has announced that it will provide £3 million for the restoration of the main road bridge and £300,000 to construct the temporary footbridge.