Options are being considered for the restoration of a derelict 150 year old bridge over the River Wye.

Black Bridge in Lydbrook was closed in 2016 after it was found to be in poor condition and unsafe.

Now Gloucestershire Council says it is hoping to re-open the public right of way over the bridge once it can find a solution that is financially viable.

It is working with neighbouring Herefordshire County Council and the Wye Valley AONB to prepare a bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund. If successful, this would mean the bridge could reopen in 2019.

In the meantime the bridge is fenced off and remains a serious safety risk and should not be used by members of the public.

Cllr Vernon Smith, cabinet member for highways and flood said: "We know how important this route is to the local community, and every option is being considered to make it safe for public use once more. I was pleased to meet with the Black Bridge group last month to look at ways to make this possible, and we will continue to work together to try and secure the bridge's future.

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Cllr Terry Hale, county councillor for Drybrook and Lydbrook said: "We want to bring Black Bridge back into use for people to enjoy now and for years to come, and it is encouraging to be working with people across the community to find a solution.

"At the moment, safety has to be our number one priority, so the area remains fenced off to protect the public."

Any community groups interested in working with the councils should make contact at majorprojects@gloucestershire.gov.uk