This hole in the ground is the reason why a footbridge at the Roodee still can’t reopen despite months of delays.

The bridge closed in February 2012 because of work being carried out on the adjacent railway bridge which involved sandblasting the  structure, creating a potential hazard to  pedestrians and cyclists.

Originally planned to reopen in August 2012,  the date was postponed several times due to  delays in the completion of the engineering works.

Now a landslip is causing a headache for users  as well as Network Rail and Cheshire West and Chester Council.

A sign at the site reads: “The new footbridge  was due to reopen early February but at the  beginning of January an embankment slip  occurred on the Curzon Park side which caused  damage to the path and the end footbridge  section.

Notice on the bridge leading from Curzon Park over the River Dee
Notice on the bridge leading from Curzon Park over the River Dee

“A ground investigation has been carried out  and piling works will need to be carried out to  stabilise the embankment. Cheshire West and  Chester will work with Network Rail, who own  the land, to carry out the necessary works. The  new footway is expected to be open the end of  the summer.”