THE closure of a railway bridge for reconstruction could be for six months less than the 18 months previously thought.

Work on the bridge in Chislehurst Road, Orpington is due to begin in October after safety inspections found there was deterioration to the posts holding it up.

Bromley Council says the estimated £5.5m costs to carry out the work could also be reduced by £1.5m.

The appointment of a contractor for the work is set to be approved at a full council meeting next month.

Portfolio holder for environment Councillor Colin Smith said: "We have been looking at all options to minimise disruption and this comes as very welcome news for residents, motorists and taxpayers alike.

"We are now looking in close detail at traffic management measures designed to alleviate some of the congestion which will inevitably occur whilst the bridge is closed to traffic.

"We shall also be contacting local schools to alert them to the plans so that parents can adjust their journeys and look at options such as car sharing or potentially walking."

Due to a 7.5 tonne weight restriction limit, buses and heavy goods vehicles are currently diverted from the bridge.