WORK finally started on a long-awaited bridge across Tavistock Canal at Monksmead this week, after two years of negotiations between local authorities.

The swing bridge will provide a link between the bottom of the Monksmead estate and the town centre via the canal towbridge.

It has been funded by Devon and Cornwall Housing Association as part of its mixed development of rented social housing for disabled people and families. Additional cash has come from Sustrans and the Leader II European fund.

Cllr Nick Morgan, chairman of West Devon Borough Council's strategic development committee, said: 'As a borough council we are delighted to have facilitated this very important link.

'A lot of hard work has been involved and it will be an important route for both Monksmead residents and the public as a whole.'

The bridge and its associated links forms part of the Sustrans National Cycle Network between north and south Devon.

In addition to the bridge, resurfacing, widening and lighting improvements are being undertaken along the canal towpath to make it accessible to wheelchair users.While the work takes place the towpath will be closed temporarily — the bridge is due to open by mid-August.