Plans for a £32.3m bridge across the Thames – the first major new road crossing over the river in about 20 years – have been approved by the Government.
Local Transport Minister Norman Baker confirmed funding is available for Surrey County Council’s new crossing between Walton and Shepperton.
It is due to be completed by 2013 and will replace two temporary bridges in the area.
Ian Lake, Surrey County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “The new bridge will open another chapter in the long history of the River Thames.
“With Surrey’s roads carrying nearly twice the national average traffic flow and the county being a powerhouse of the national economy, this is a hugely important scheme.
"Walton’s new bridge will make a real difference to residents, commuters and businesses and it will be an important new landmark along the river."
The bridge will provide improved access to several schools, major employers and shopping centres. The existing bridges will remain open until the new crossing is completed.
Work on the crossing is due to start next month.
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