A DANGEROUS footbridge popular with walkers and commuters could remain closed for at least three years, it has been revealed.

Essex Highways closed the Old Hythe footbridge, in Hythe Station Road, Colchester, in May following concerns over the structure’s integrity.

Four-way traffic lights have been installed, but residents are worried this has increased pollution and noise in the area.

Homeowners have been told works are likely to take at least three years, leading some to take matters into their own hands and bypass the barriers.

Deborah Upson, whose home overlooks the lights, said: “Sometimes you get two or three buses queuing with another coming in the other direction.

“It is causing extra traffic pollution and noise. No-one has been seen doing any work and people are still using the bridge.

“Half the traffic cones have been thrown in the river. We should not have to put up with this for three years.”

Hythe Quay resident Tom Mclaughlin added: “Noise has hugely increased. Lorries and buses queueing and motorbikes revving their engines at night. It would have made more sense to bring in a zebra crossing.”

Richard Aikens, of nearby Geoff Seadon Close, said: “People regularly jump the lights as it can be a long wait. I had to wait at a green light because someone had jumped a red light while I have sometimes almost had head-on collisions with cyclists skipping a red light.”

Ward councillor Lee Scordis (Lab, Old Heath and Hythe) added: “I worry this becomes another Ipswich Road or like the forgotten bridges on Cowdray Avenue and East Street, which are still awaiting maintenance.

“A wait of three years is completely unacceptable. Essex Highways talks about increasing walking and cycling.

“How is closing off a bridge which is not only on the cycle network but also links residents to a train station encouraging more active travel? This needs action now.”

An Essex Highways spokesman said engineers’ designs needed to pass technical, strategic and financial tests before starting.

He added: “In the meantime we are aware of the problems now being caused by a tiny number of irresponsible members of the public moving barriers and cones.

“We are looking to install locked fencing and chains to prevent people accessing the bridge.

"Our contractor checks the bridge area lights and traffic management equipment at least weekly and will continue to replace any measures which have been moved or damaged.

“We would strongly insist that people do not move or damage barriers and do not use the bridge while it is not safe to do so.”