Monmouthshire County Council has confirmed that Inglis Bridge will reopen to pedestrians at the end of July following a substantial programme of refurbishment to address safety concerns that led to its closure in September 2024. Councillors and community representatives marked the near-completion of the works at a site event held earlier this week.
Final works and short closures
While the bridge structure and associated repair work are largely finished, council contractors still need to remove their on-site compound and carry out site clearance. For safety reasons both for the public and the workforce, the bridge will be temporarily closed while these remaining tasks are completed. The council has not announced exact dates for that short closure period but expects the overall schedule to enable a reopening at the end of July.
Community and partners involved
The council said the reopening will restore a valuable crossing of the River Monnow used by residents, schoolchildren and visitors. A celebration at the site brought together representatives from across the town, including pupils from Osbaston Primary School and civic and political figures.
- Catherine Jones, Head of Osbaston Primary School (with pupils)
- Catherine Fookes, Member of Parliament for Monmouthshire
- Cllr Mary Ann Brocklesby, Leader of Monmouthshire County Council
- Cllr Rob Barrell, Mayor of Monmouth
- Lt Col. Steve Little, Royal Monmouth Royal Engineers Monmouthshire (Militia)
- Cllr Sara Burch, Cabinet Member for Rural Affairs, Housing and Tourism
“We know how important Inglis Bridge is to the people of Monmouth and understand how much residents have missed this vital link. We are delighted that the bridge is now close to be reopened and would like to thank the Ministry of Defence, the Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association”
The council highlighted the role of Ministry of Defence contractors and reserve forces in supporting the project, thanking them for their contribution to making the crossing usable again.
Why the work matters
Inglis Bridge provides a pedestrian route across the River Monnow that links neighbourhoods, schools and the town centre. Its closure in September 2024 prompted local disruption and required alternative walking routes. Restoring the bridge will shorten journeys for walkers and improve connectivity for people who rely on the crossing every day.
Residents and visitors are advised to watch for official communications from Monmouthshire County Council about the exact timing of the final temporary closure and the formal reopening ceremony. Until the council confirms the reopening date, the bridge should be considered closed for safety whenever contractors are on site.
| Item | Status |
|---|---|
| Major structural refurbishment | Complete |
| Contractor compound removal and site clearance | Ongoing (final phase) |
| Expected pedestrian reopening | End of July (pending clearance) |
The county council has said it recognises the bridge’s role in everyday life in Monmouth and pledged to continue keeping the public informed as the final works are finished.
