TONEDALE bridge in Wellington is now OPEN after being closed for more than four weeks.

Network Rail closed Tonedale Bridge in Wellington, between Station Road and Milverton Road, until October 9 for essential repairs.

Then, due to “heavy down pours”, Network Rail had to delay the opening until October 19.

A spokesperson for Network Rail explained they were unable to clean, paint, waterproof and reinstate the bridge and resurface the road, because the bridge must be completely dry for 24 hours.

“We are sorry, as this isn’t ideal for people who live and work locally”, they added.

READ MORE: Tonedale Bridge closed for another ten days

Many residents were concerned about safety during the bridge closure.

This was because of an increase in traffic in the smaller roads, for example Orchard Close.

READ MORE: Residents concerned about safety amid bridge closure

Louisa White, 41, a resident of Orchard Close, was concerned about walking her children to school.

“Nobody seems to want to slow down or be inconvenienced by coming across us on their journeys,” she said.

“There has been speeding on Linden Hill and through Rockwell Green. There was a confrontation between two drivers on the Westford railway bridge, as neither wanted to give way. A lot of angry horn honking going on also.

“General consensus around here is that our little village isn't designed for such high traffic volume and drivers are not managing their speed and attention well at all.”

Now the road is open, Network Rail say the bridge will only need visual examinations and general maintenance for the next 25 years.