An ageing West End footbridge could soon be replaced after a charity agreed to fund new designs to make it more accessible.
Sustainable transport group Sustrans has promised cash to look into modernising the bridge over the railway track at the western side of Magdalen Green.
Residents voiced support for the move at a meeting of the West End Community Council earlier this year.
The designs will be put to the public during a consultation and further funding will still need to be approved before the plan can go ahead.
The bridge connects the popular park with the waterfront and Riverside Drive.
West councillor Fraser Macpherson saidthe move was still in the “early stages” but praised the work of all those involved so far.
He said: “The crucial part of the bridge is that it isn’t wheelchair or scooter friendly.
“It also isn’t great for cyclists either of course and if it was to be made more accessible then it would link up with the existing cycle route by the riverside.
“Another problem is that it’s just not aesthetically pleasing. The paintwork is a bit rusty and it doesn’t complement the nice surroundings.
“Locals are very keen to see this happen and I thank everyone including council engineers and Sustrans for their help so far.
“Any new bridge would need to fit in with the surrounding area too of course but if it comes off, it’s a win-win.”
He said there was some cash available in the council’s capital programme for footbridges if Sustrans was able to contribute further to its construction.
The charity provides advice, support and funding to make it easier for people to walk and cycle everyday journeys.
A spokesperson said: “Places for Everyone support has been awarded for the design of the replacement foot/cycle bridge over the railway line at Magdalen Green, subject to a series of funding conditions.
“However, it is important to note that this process is still at an early stage, and a further funding request would need to be received and approved for any works to proceed.”
A spokesperson for Dundee City Council said: “The existing bridge is not suitable for wheelchair users or cyclists so a bid was made to Sustrans to try to secure money from the Places for Everyone fund to assess the feasibility of replacing it.
“We are pleased that the bid has been successful to allow design work to progress.”
The upgrade would add to a series of new measures geared towards promoting cycling in Dundee such as the £370,000 revamp of the Port of Dundee route.
