THE suspension bridge over the River Trent will remain closed for up to another five months, it has emerged.

Severn Trent Water had said it planned to reopen the popular walking and cycling route over the River Trent by the end of this month following a £1.5m repair job.

But an extra £400,000 will now be needed to complete the work – because it was in a "much worse condition" than was at first realised.

The bridge, which links The Meadows and West Bridgford, was closed in July last year after reports of falling debris.

If the work is completed within the current time estimate, it will have been shut for over 18 months – including for two Robin Hood Festival of Running events, when it would have been used by thousands of runners.

Fraser Pithie, senior operations manager at Severn Trent Water, said: "It is with regret that we cannot meet our aim of completing the work in relation to Wilford Suspension Bridge in September 2009.

"This is because we have found, since commencing works on the bridge, that certain elements are in a much worse condition than the pre-work examinations were able to identify.

"I realise this news will disappoint many local people that have previously enjoyed the use of the bridge as an amenity and I certainly gain no satisfaction from being unable to meet an aim I set out to the community earlier this year.

"Severn Trent has reconsidered the situation and the options available and has decided to continue with full restoration and the additional costs that will be involved.

"We continue to work with the respective local authorities on both sides of the bridge and discussions are continuing with them, including on the funding of the works.

"It remains my hope that they will be able to give financial support to the scheme."

Severn Trent Water is due to send leaflets to residents on either side of the bridge today, as well as updating the information on the company's website.

Mr Pithie added: "Of course, our contractors will continue to do all they can to expedite the work to completion but it is unlikely that it will be completed until early in 2010, probably January/February.

"Such estimations in the winter period can be affected by weather conditions and we have taken that into account in this latest estimation of completion."

The setback has come as a blow to cyclists, including Nottingham group Pedals.

Chairman Hugh McClintock said: "It is very disappointing when there has been such a long delay anyway.

"Although it's pleasing they are committed to the restoration work, there is still some uncertainty because of the increasing cost and they are more dependant on getting contributions from partners.

"It is causing disruption because it is a popular route and it is a local landmark."

jon.robinson@nottinghameveningpost.co.uk