THE bridge over Northgate to King George’s Hall, Blackburn, has been demolished.

The work is described as the first step in restoring Blackburn Central Library’s facade to its “original 1920s appearance to enable it to become a landmark for the town centre”.

A £2million budget was authorised by the borough council last year to replace the crumbling frontage because of fears a chunk of masonry could come off and injure a passer-by.

Council regeneration boss Dave Harling said: “Many people considered the bridge an eyesore and will be glad to see it pulled down.

“The demolition of the bridge is part of a broader investment to improve the town centre.

“The library will become more of a feature building than something less interesting, as it was.

“We haven’t had any complaints about the works and traffic seems to be flowing well in and out of Blackburn.”

Surrounding roads have been closed or made two-way and parking bays revoked as the works take place. After the library frontage is complete, a two-year regeneration of the town centre will follow, including the £28million development of the Cathedral Quarter and demolition of the old market hall.

There will also be a new £5million bus station built in Ainsworth Street.