Gloucestershire County Council's highways crews will be carrying out essential maintenance work to Brockweir Bridge in the Forest of Dean from today (August 9).

Built in 1906, the iron Grade II listed bridge is situated across the River Wye between Brockweir and the A466 in the Forest of Dean.

Co-funded by Gloucestershire and Monmouthshire County Council, improvement works on the bridge will include the bridge receiving a lovely fresh coat of white paint.

This new lick of paint will protect the metal frame and ensure the bridge is safe and looks good, particular important for this historic tourist spot.

Crews will also be replacing corroded sections of the bridge to ensure it remains fit for use for many years to come.

Essential crossing will continue to be fully open throughout the works, with three-way traffic lights provisionally in place from August 9 - December 17.

Gloucestershire County Council said the long date is precautionary to account for potential weather disruption. However, the ambition is to complete the work much quicker.

Councillor Vernon Smith, cabinet member for highways at Gloucestershire County Council, said: "The A466 over the River Wye is a busy road and it is vital we carry out these works to extend the life of the bridge. This will benefit everyone who uses the bridge and I'm sure that local people will be pleased with the results of the restoration to this impressive structure."

Chris McFarling, councillor for Hewelsfield and Brockweir at Gloucestershire County Council, added: "It's great news that this landmark is going to be repainted, and I'm sure the renovation will be widely welcomed. Inevitably, the work will cause some disruption but it will be worth it to see Brockweir Bridge looking smart."