A NEW walking and cycling bridge in Worcester is already making a big difference to people’s lives.
Kepax Bridge, opened in early December by Paralympic gold-medallist Rebecca Redfernand, has been constructed to reduce road traffic and encouraging healthier, more sustainable travel options for residents, visitors, and students alike.
One local organisation, Worcester Snoezelen who are a charity, providing leisure and recreational opportunities for local people with disabilities, has said the new bridge has been a game changer for those who rely on the charity for support.
The bridge offers access to areas of Worcester that were previously difficult or impossible to reach and this has opened up new possibilities for their service.
Jane Roberts from Worcester Snoezelen, said: “The new Kepax Bridge provides greater accessibility for people with physical differences to access parts of Worcester that previously have not been accessible before, it has also enabled our staff members to cycle to work.
“This bridge is a fantastic way for the people we care for to enjoy the outdoors, get the physical exercise they need, and experience the positive effects of nature in a safe, inclusive way.”
Spanning the River Severn, the bridge has already seen nearly 50,000 journeys in three months, averaging over 600 crossings per day, proving its growing importance in the city’s transport network.
It complements the city’s existing river crossings, Diglis Bridge and Sabrina Bridge, creating a more connected and accessible route for those walking, wheeling, and cycling.
Worcestershire County Council’s highways spokesperson Coun Marc Bayliss added: “It’s fantastic to see Kepax Bridge already making a positive impact in the community with nearly 50,000 journeys in such a short space of time.
“The bridge is not only providing an important new link for the city but also helping to reduce road traffic and encourage sustainable travel as we know many people use the bridge to get to and from work, including staff who work with Worcester Snoezelen.
“Hearing how it is benefiting organisations like Worcester Snoezelen is great news and this is exactly why we invested in this project – to create a more inclusive and accessible city for everyone. I’m delighted that the bridge is already improving the lives of those who rely on accessible routes.”
