Work to replace a controversially closed footbridge at a popular walking spot is due to begin in two months, council bosses have said.
The White Bridge in Halesworth was closed in August 2022 after structural engineers at Suffolk County Council deemed it unsafe.
The route was then shut with plastic barriers that dog walkers and other users ignored.
This prompted the council to spend two days erecting a 10-foot metal fence to prevent people from passing across.
The county council has said that work to install a replacement bridge is due to start in September once water vole breeding season finishes.
The size and nature of the metal fence and the bridge closure provoked anger among dog walkers and others who use the route with many calling it "monstrous".
More than 50 regular walkers of the route turned out with placards to stage a demonstration against the fence.
Paul West, county councilor responsible for highways, has said work will officially begin in September to replace the structure.
READ MORE: Neighbours at war over plans for huge doggy daycare centre in quiet Norfolk village
He said: "The Public Rights of Way team have been assured by Suffolk Highways and Milestone that the works will commence on site in September 2024.
"This is due to the ecological window for working within the watercourse due to the presence of water voles and prevents works commencing prior to this date as originally envisaged.
"The requirement was identified by Milestone’s ecologist, with clearance work required to the banks to be undertaken after the water vole breeding season in September.
READ MORE: Traveller family faces backlash over plans to stay in Norfolk village permanently
"The clearance work to the banks are required for a working area to dismantle the current structure and install the new structure.
"This is frustrating for all parties concerned but the working window has had to be pushed back due to the ecological restraints that were identified following surveys on site."
Mr West also added that the preliminary design is "almost complete" and a "detailed design" will be released once complete.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel