A POPULAR footpath in a village near Taunton is temporarily closed.

Part of the path on the west side of Norton Fitzwarren is closed due to the unsafe condition of the two footbridges.

Somerset Council Council (SCC) said the bridges are likely to be replaced later in the year.

"We appreciate this is a popular path and we’re aiming to reopen it as soon as possible," a spokesperson for SCC said.

“Part of the footpath on the west side of Norton Fitzwarren is temporarily closed due to the deteriorating condition of the weir structures that support two footbridges.

READ MORE: LETTER: 'We need to exercise more so what does the council do? Closes our footpath!'

"A project is now underway to replace both footbridges, to make the path safe again.

“The continued use of the bridges by the public, whilst under temporary closure, meant we needed to put physical barriers to prevent access until the new bridges can be installed.

"These measures are for the safety of the public, because of the risk of structural failure.

"It’s expected that the bridges will be replaced later this year.”

Some members of the public are unhappy about the closure, particularly as residents are being encouraged to exercise during the national lockdown.