Old Shoreham Tollbridge and a flock of starlings (after renovation work finished in August 2008)

11th August 2008

"Old Shoreham Tollbridge to re-open ahead of schedule

RESTORATION work on the Old Shoreham tollbridge is due to finish two weeks ahead of schedule. It was originally expected that the works would be completed by the end of this month, in time for the Shoreham Air Show.

The six-month restoration has been the most extensive work on the bridge since the British Railways Corporation sold it to West Sussex County Council in 1970 and should be completed by Monday, August 18.

The aim of the refurbishment is to preserve the bridge, a Grade II* listed structure, for at least another 30 years.

The county council has worked closely with the Old Shoreham Tollbridge Community Trust throughout the project.

Trust chairman Liza McKinney, said: "I am delighted that everyone can now walk, cycle and ride across the bridge once again.

"Congratulations to the men from Mackley who despite the rain, hail and mighty winds, have completed the work early."

There will be a formal opening ceremony of the tollbridge in October."