A NARROW footbridge is set to be removed to pave the way for a replacement bridge that will be "suitable" for cyclists and pedestrians.

The proposals for Markfield Crescent Footbridge – in the Blackbrook and St Helens Town Centre wards – will come before the planning committee at its meeting on Tuesday.

The application relates to ‘prior approval’ for the proposed footbridge.

The report to the committee states that, given the narrow width of the existing bridge, it can only accommodate pedestrians.

The works involve the removal of the existing footbridge with a replacement bridge that would be "suitable" for cyclists and pedestrians.

The replacement footbridge will be approximately 3.5 metres wide and approximately 14 metres in length over St Helens Canal.

On either side of the footbridge will be handrails, which will be approximately 1.5 metres high.

The report says: “The proposals involve removal of the existing footbridge with a replacement bridge that would be suitable for cyclists and pedestrians.

“The works require prior approval of the local planning authority and constitute permitted development under the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015 (as amended).

“The proposal is considered appropriate in this location, cannot be carried out elsewhere and the bridge is of an acceptable design that is compatible with the site and surrounding area.”

The report states that the committee is recommended to "grant prior approval" subject to a condition – with the development then permitted to proceed.