A NEW pedestrian and cycle bridge looks set to be built over the River Tone in Taunton.

The structure would be constructed between the Morrisons bandstand and the Coal Orchard on the other side of the river.

Somerset West and Taunton Council (SWT) has submitted a planning application to its planners for the steel bridge.

The proposed scheme joins the National Cycle Network Route 3, adjacent to the northern bank of the River Tone to the existing footway adjacent to the southern bank.

It provides connectivity to the Coal Orchard development and further connectivity to Route 3 between the existing Morrisons to Coal Orchard bridge and Priory Bridge Road bridge.

A statement with the application from the council's agent Stantec says: "A pedestrian and cycle bridge across the River Tone will improve accessibility to jobs, services and community facilities, and mitigate and adapt to climate change by improving accessibility by cycling and walking to and within Taunton town centre.

"It will facilitate active travel movements and contribute to a high quality, comprehensive cycle and pedestrian network within Taunton.

"Currently, the only bridge in this location is pedestrian only and cyclists are forced to either dismount (despite the fact it is part of National Cycle Route 3) or cycle along Goodlands Lane in the opposite direction then back up Bridge Street in order to access key areas of the town centre."

The proposed bridge comprised part of SWT's bid that secured £13.9million from the Future High Streets Fund for town centre improvements.