Works to install the new, steel bridge came to an end on Monday 16 December.
Cllr Elizabeth Sneath, county councillor for Spalding Elloe, said: “I’m really happy to announce that the new Two Plank Bridge is officially open now, which means people can go back to crossing the Vernatt’s here when out for a walk or cycle ride.
“Being made of steel, the new bridge will make it far easier for the county’s highways team to take care of and it will also last much longer than a new wooden bridge would.
“I know how inconvenient having this route closed has been, so I want to thank everyone, from dog-walkers and cyclists to school-children and their parents, for their patience.”
Cllr Elizabeth Sneath, county councillor for Spalding Elloe, talks about the newly-installed Two Plank bridge replacement.
Karen Cassar, assistant director for highways, said: “The new 16-tonne, steel bridge we’ve installed will be far more hard-wearing and easier to maintain than the old wooden crossing which needed constant repairs to keep safe.
“Not only that, but the new bridge is wide and flat making it easier for people with limited mobility to use.”
As part of the works, the old five-tonne bridge was removed. Following this, the team installed 11-metre deep foundations before lifting the new bridge into place using a 250-tonne crane. The bridge was then secured into place and the footpaths on both sides of Vernatts Drain completed.
The route was kept shut throughout construction of the Spalding Western Relief Road’s north section to allow for construction of the relief road to be safely carried out near the Blue Gowt Lane / Vernatt's crossing.
For the latest news on the Spalding Western Relief Road, visit www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/swrr.