Aerial image shows replacement for Two Plank Bridge in place, with Spalding and Pinchbeck residents soon able to cross the Vernatt’s Drain on it

A new photo has been released showing the replacement for Two Plank Bridge.

Lincolnshire County Council has replaced the old wooden bridge that spanned the Vernatt’s Drain between Pinchbeck and Spalding as part of its work on the northern section of the Spalding Western Relief Road.

The old bridge — popular with dog walkers and well used for the school run — was removed in March 2022, with an initial promise of a replacement 18 months after that.

However, delays have meant that the new bridge should finally be open in mid December.

The image released by the council shows that the new structure is in place — but there are ‘associated works’ still to be completed before it can be used.

The picture was released alongside a fresh picture of the new road bridge over the railway line.

Despite being complete, the bridge will not be open for traffic until the rest of the relief road is completed — which is likely to be well into the next decade, with no funding in place.

What do you think? Will you be happy to have a bridge back in use soon? Let us know your views in the comments below…