Swan Street footbridge, used by pedestrians to cross Osney Stream in the Osney Island area of Oxford, has been closed for safety reasons.

The footbridge, which connects Swan Street with Ferry Hinksey Road and is used by residents including parents and pupils at West Oxford Community Primary School, was closed after Oxfordshire County Council inspectors identified safety concerns with the structure.

A short diversionary route goes from West Street to Botley Road and then back around to Ferry Hinksey Road. It will add about 10 minutes to most people’s journeys.

Councillor Liz Leffman, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways Construction and Repairs, said: “We know how popular this footbridge is, and how important it is for this community.

“However, we cannot compromise when it comes to the safety of the public. The decision to close the bridge has not been taken lightly, but it was the only option in the circumstances.”

Engineers from the council and its principal highways contractor M Group will now consider options to reopen the bridge as soon as practically possible.