BARNSLEY’S new multimillion pound bridge - which will dominate the town centre skyline - is progressing well ahead of its opening in October.
The Market Gate Bridge will will be a permanent replacement for the former Jumble Lane level crossing which was closed by Network Rail to improve safety in the area.
According to South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) documents, costs have increased significantly by £4.4m to £12m.
A further £2.5m was allocated by SYMCA following a meeting in March due to ‘unforeseen delays’.
Coun Robert Frost, cabinet spokesperson for regeneration and culture, told the Chronicle: “We’re looking forward to the opening of Market Gate Bridge this autumn.
“Works are progressing well and you can really see it coming together day by day now.
“Once complete, the bridge will be a fantastic addition to the Barnsley skyline and open up more active travel and accessible routes whether you’re arriving on foot, bike, scooter, or wheelchair.( “It will also add to the continuing wider/ development and economic growth of our town centre, including proposed developments such as the Youth Zone, the development of The Seam digital campus, and the Northern Academy for Vocal Excellence (NAVE) which will be the new home of the Barnsley Youth Choir, amongst other projects.”