A makeover of an infamous railway footbridge in Bellingham will ease concerns about anti-social behaviour, according to an MP.

The bridge, which is located in Bellingham, was built in 1924 and was previously in disrepair.

Debbie Galligan, who lives nearby, said she now feels more comfortable walking her dog along the bridge twice a day.

She said: “Now the bridge is all open there are no unexpected surprises when you come around the corner, so as a woman walking alone I feel much safer.”

Solid steel sides to the bridge were replaced with see-through mesh and timber steps and decking was replaced with glass-reinforced plastic equivalents.

Ellie Reeves, MP for Lewisham West and Penge, hopes anti-social behaviour at the bridge will now be discouraged.

She said: "Before its renovation the bridge was falling into a state of disrepair and its solid steel sides led to reports of anti-social behaviour.

“It meant residents were reluctant to use the bridge because of concerns for their safety, but now it's much more accessible.

“It gives Bellingham residents easier access to the local park and river walk where they can walk their dogs, go cycling or use the children’s play area.

“Residents are very happy with the changes and Network Rail and their workers should be congratulated for completing the work with minimal disruption to local residents and rail passengers alike.”

David Line, Network Rail south east’s works delivery manager, added: “We’re delighted to be able to reopen the bridge. Local residents have been fantastic while the work has been going on, and our contractors have done a sterling job with pedestrian access blocked for just two days.”