WORK is getting back under way to create a new pedestrian and cycle bridge over the Forth and Clyde canal.

A retractable bridge is being built opposite Trossachs Street in Garscube.

It will be part of a pedestrian and cycle path that will run from Hamiltonhill through the Claypits Local Nature Reserve to Garscube Road.

There will be enough space to allow kayakers and canoeists to pass beneath the bridge when it is in the closed position.

A zigzag path will go from Garscube Road across the grass area to the canal towpath, linking with the bridge which will connect with a new path and the existing route through Claypits nature area to Hamiltonhill, where more than 65 new homes will be built over the next six years.

The bridge is part of wider work to develop the nature reserve and the canal basin at Firhill.

The project was suspended after the pandemic struck and lockdown restrictions came into force.

While the work is ongoing the towpath between Applecross Street and Firhill will be shut to allow for the construction of the bridge.

The closure will last approximately four weeks, with a diversion in place.

A spokesman for Scottish Canals said: “Following the Scottish Government phasing of lockdown easing, we are pleased to be able to restart works on the Claypits site and Garscube Bridge this month.

“The site will reopen to begin work on Thursday [June 18] with works commencing on Panmure Gate pontoon and path structure, as well as the Garscube Bridge foundation works.

“As part of the works, we will be required to once again close the towpath between Applecross Street and Firhill to allow for the construction and installation of Garscube Bridge.

“The closure will last approximately four weeks, with a diversion in place – we will share exact closure dates once confirmed.”

Scottish Canals is still waiting for planning permission to build a three-way bridge at Stockingfield junction on Lochburn Road.