The final phase of a works to refurbish a key footbridge in Windsor are to go ahead in the new year following initial push back.

In September breweries situated under the Arches, led an outcry against initial plans to close a key footbridge from Windsor and Eton Riverside Station to the coach park near Alexandra Gardens ahead of the Christmas period.

At the time Dave Hayward, co-owner of Indie Rabble Brewery said: "We want the works to happen, we do. We understand there will be an impact on us when they happen - but this [Christmas] is the worst possible time for these works."

READ MORE: Windsor brewery asks for footbridge works to be delayed

Following discussions, the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead announced it would undertake the work in phases, allowing the bridge to remain open through the crucial Christmas trading period.

The first phase of the work saw the bridge lift refurbished.

Now the final phase of the footbridge's refurbishment is set to begin on January 2.

The bridge will be closed for about 17 weeks, with signposted alternative routes and lift access in place from the Coach Park to the town centre and castle. Scaffolding will be erected but the council has said access to all businesses will be maintained throughout.

During this time the steel bridge structure will be cleaned and repainted. Preventative maintenance and anti-corrosion works will take place as well as the installation of new bridge lighting, cleaning of the Perspex canopy and application of a mirror film to the underside of the canopy.

The council hopes the works will "enhance the sense of welcome into the town centre". 

The bridge connects the Coach Park to the town centre and station for pedestrians, but has deteriorated in recent years. 

Councillor Amy Tisi, Cabinet member for children’s services, education and Windsor, said: “The bridge is a key gateway into Windsor, and the council is required to repair and maintain it under a lease with Network Rail.

"After listening to businesses, I liaised with officers who revised the work programme into two phases – pre- and post- Christmas – which means we’ve completely avoided any scaffolding or bridge closure during the important festive period.

“With the lift now looking great, we’re aiming to begin and complete refurbishment of the bridge structure itself as soon as possible, and we’re sharing the start date now so people have advanced awareness.

"While there’s never an ideal time to complete such works, this investment is vital as the bridge hasn’t been maintained for many years and it is important it’s completed before further deterioration.”