IT'S been more than eight months since a bridge was removed from a park - and residents are questioning why it's taking so long to replace it. 

Wyre Forest District Council removed the footbridge at Springfield Park in Kidderminster on August 7, 2023, after it was hit by vandalism.

It was initially shut in July as it was deemed "unsafe" and in need of repair.

Now, questions have been raised over the replacement footbridge and when it will be installed.

Resident Bob Haywood said: "Why is it taking so long to replace this vital link between two sections of the park?

"Any reputable builder/carpenter could knock up and install a replacement bridge in a long weekend.

"This sad saga has gone on for far too long".

Others have asked for updates on the replacement bridge on the Friends of Springfield Park Facebook page. Drone user Kidderminster Drone also shared a recent video of the park without the bridge.

Wyre Forest District Council said that the brook which the bridge goes over is listed as a salmon breeding area. They said this has "restricted" them because of the salmon breeding season, which ran up to March.

The council added that they are waiting on additional updates from Worcestershire County Council.

A spokesperson for Worcestershire County Council said: “Officers are engaged with Wyre Forest District Council over the replacement of the bridge which runs alongside the public right of way.”

A spokesperson for the Environment Agency added: “Our Fisheries team advised that the replacement of a like-for-like structure would have minimal impact on fish.

“We also recommended measures to prevent sediment/concrete entering the watercourse at any time during construction.”