With nearly 50,000 users in the three months since Kepax Bridge opened in early December, the bridge is already making a big difference to people’s lives.
One local organisation, Worcester Snoezelen who are a charity, providing leisure and recreational opportunities for local people with disabilities, have said the new bridge has been a game changer for those who rely on the charity for support.
The bridge offers access to areas of Worcester that were previously difficult or impossible to reach and this has opened up new possibilities for their service.
Jane Roberts from Worcester Snoezelen, said: “The new Kepax Bridge provides greater accessibility for people with physical differences to access parts of Worcester that previously have not been accessible before, it has also enabled our staff members to cycle to work.
“This bridge is a fantastic way for the people we care for to enjoy the outdoors, get the physical exercise they need, and experience the positive effects of nature in a safe, inclusive way.
“One new initiative that would not be possible without the bridge is our Memorial Walk taking place on 29 March, where the route will include the new bridge. We're hoping that this will now become an annual event, demonstrating to people who benefit from the charity, how accessible the route is and how we can now be active in parts of the city previously out of reach."
Since its official opening at the start of December, Kepax Bridge has rapidly become a well-used, and in some cases essential, crossing for Worcester’s walkers, wheelchair users and cyclists.
Spanning the River Severn, the bridge has already seen nearly 50,000 journeys in three months, averaging over 600 crossings per day, proving its growing importance in the city’s transport network.
Kepax Bridge is designed to encourage sustainable, healthier travel choices for Worcester residents, and visitors, and also to ease congestion. It complements the city’s existing river crossings, Diglis Bridge and Sabrina Bridge, creating a more connected and accessible route for those walking, wheeling, and cycling.
Councillor Marc Bayliss, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport at Worcestershire County Council, said: “It’s fantastic to see Kepax Bridge already making a positive impact in the community with nearly 50,000 journeys in such a short space of time.
“The bridge is not only providing an important new link for the city but also helping to reduce road traffic and encourage sustainable travel as we know many people use the bridge to get to and from work, including staff who work with Worcester Snoezelen.
“Hearing how it is benefiting organisations like Worcester Snoezelen is great news and this is exactly why we invested in this project - to create a more inclusive and accessible city for everyone. I’m delighted that the bridge is already improving the lives of those who rely on accessible routes.”
Final landscaping and park improvements are set to start week commencing 31 March. These works are subject to suitable weather conditions.
The Worcester Snoezelen Memorial Walk takes place on 29 March and is a significant event for the organisation and its community. If you would like to take part, or support, this event, please visit the Just Giving page.
For more information on Kepax Bridge, visit the dedicated page on our website.
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