A statement from Sefton Council said: “The Council are extremely concerned and disappointed at news that National Highways will not be providing a replacement footbridge at the junction of Dunnings Bridge Road and Park Lane, and have undertaken no meaningful community engagement regarding the reversal of their earlier decision.

“After the damage and subsequent demolition of the original crossing, the Council stated very clearly to National Highways that the expectation among the local community and Council alike is for National Highways to abide by its commitment to provide a replacement footbridge at this location.                                                      

“Previous public consultation had proven the community’s strong desire for a replacement crossing. And after months of continually contacting National Highways and receiving assurances that they would engage with the Council and local community in summer 2023, the Council has learnt that a decision had already been made.

“The Council is outraged by the complete disregard for the local communities and lack of any meaningful engagement with those who will be most impacted by this decision.”

Council Leader Cllr Ian Maher added: “We expect National Highways to reverse this arbitrary decision and fulfil their agreed commitment to provide a replacement bridge”.