The New Year will see work start on two footpaths in Ely which will improve them for all users at a cost of £40,000.

From January 14, contractors will be carrying out the work which is expected to take around two weeks to complete. The paths will be closed during the project with alternative routes sign-posted.

The first project is to replace the footbridge over Annesdale Dock. Original bridge beams have started to move and twist, the bridge supports have also been damaged and brick abutments need repointing and loose bricks will be replaced.

Work is also needed to repair old timber piling on the footpath at the end of Willow Walk beyond the railway bridge where the path follows the river bank. The original piling has rotted allowing the path to slip into the water. A new steel sheet pile wall and railing will be installed.

Local footpath diversion will be put in place. For Annesdale Dock path users will be diverted via Station Road and Annesdale. For Willow Walk users will be diverted via Lisle Lane and Willow Walk.