Construction of a new footbridge to replace Alma Bridge in Sidmouth is now underway after a turf cutting ceremony in the town today.

Devon County Council has appointed Mac Plant Construction Ltd as the contractor for the scheme which was granted planning approval last November.

The new footbridge, spanning 20 metres over the River Sid, will replace the historic Alma Bridge designed by local architect R.W. Sampson in the early 1900s. It will be around 40 metres upstream of the existing structure.

The Chairman of East Devon District Council and county councillor for Sid Valley, Stuart Hughes was at the turf cutting ceremony this afternoon at the Ham. He said: "I'm delighted that work on this much needed bridge has begun. The former bridge has withstood the test of time and tide well, but time has come to build the new bridge across the Sid, linking to the South West Coast Path.

"Residents and visitors to the town will see a huge improvement, with the new bridge wider, more accessible and with a viewing platform and seating area incorporated into the bridge design.

"It will also lift that end of the esplanade, which is seeing more investment with plans to redevelop the Drill Hall as a popular restaurant."

Relatively short sections of ramp, matching the gradients of the Hanger Path, will connect to the bridge which will provide continued access to the seafront for residents east of the town.

A seating and viewing area will be provided on the upper section on the east side.

At the location of the existing Alma Bridge, a seating area and information board will be provided on the west side to commemorate and mark the position of the previous bridges which have been in place for over 100 years.

The existing structure will be closed for the duration of the work, with a signed inland diversion route. Emergency access steps from the east beach will be maintained at all times.

The scheme is expected to be completed in Spring 2020, weather permitting. This will ensure the adjacent Ham recreational ground is open and in use for the summer season and Folk Festival.