Costain has been awarded the £32.3m contract to build a bridge between Walton and Shepperton

Costain received the go-ahead from Surrey County Council to construct the new Walton bridge as part of a £32.3m scheme, creating the first major road crossing over the River Thames in almost 20 years.

The crossing, which will be loacted between Walton and Shepperton, is due to be completed by 2013 and will replace two temporary bridges in the area. The bridge will provide improved access to several schools, major employers and shopping centres.

Around 34,000 vehicles use the current road bridge on week days.

The government has agreed to contribute just under £23.9m to the project with the council providing a further £8.5m.

Commenting on the contract award, Costain chief executive, Andrew Wyllie said: “We are delighted to be awarded this contract by Surrey County Council, which is the first road crossing over the River Thames to be built in 20 years.”

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