THE eagerly anticipated reopening of a busy Herefordshire route will take place this Saturday, Herefordshire Council have confirmed.

Originally scheduled to reopen on April 5, Storesbrook Bridge on the B4214 between Staplow and Ledbury has been closed since early January, when work began to replace the deteriorating late Victorian deck.

An inspection had revealed that the steel decking had sustained significant salt and weather damage during its long life and was no longer fit for purpose.

The new deck was slotted into place last month, and further works have now been undertaken to ensure the integrity of the bridge.

The closure of the busy road led to extensive diversions for motorists travelling between Ledbury and Bromyard.

A Herefordshire Council spokesperson said: "Storesbrook Bridge on the B4214 between Staplow and Ledbury will reopen on Saturday April 13. "Thank you for your patience while a new bridge deck was installed.

"On Friday afternoon, once the final step has been completed, we will confirm the precise opening time here."