A project to build a new bridge across the River Severn in Newtown has moved a step forward after a planning application was submitted.

The £1.5 million project was due for completion in 2020 however Powys County Council said lengthy negotiations and delays had been caused by the pandemic.

Cllr Heulwen Hulme, Powys County Council Cabinet Member for Highways, said: "This bridge will make such a difference to those living in the local area and will certainly provide them with the opportunity to make those journeys on a bike or on foot, rather than having to get in the car.

"We are all delighted that we are finally able to move to the next step of this exciting project which will hopefully see us going out for tender for design and build as soon as planning permission is granted."

The Newtown Bridge (third crossing) will be a 60-metre span bridge that will link the north and south sides of the River Severn, near to the Poundstretcher store in Pool Road, joining up with the cycle path on the riverside in Canal Road

The Welsh Government-funded project was identified within the Active Travel Network Maps produced a few years ago. Feedback from residents, community groups, schools, families, and other stakeholders helped shape the proposed active travel routes throughout the town during a county-wide consultation.

Powys Council said more information on the progress of the project will be available in the new year.