WORK to replace the fencing on a bridge near Winchester railway station has been halted after "significant defects" were found in its parapet walls.

Workers started on the alterations to the barriers at St Paul's bridge this month, but now, in a letter  to Winchester residents living nearby, Network Rail has said that "the work has been paused until further investigations have been carried out".

As a result of this, the footpath across the bridge has been reopened to allow pedestrians to cross.

The bridge, just south of the railway station, dates from around 1839 when the railway was completed between Winchester and Southampton.

READ MORE: St Paul's bridge in Winchester to get new fencing next month

St Paul's bridge, Winchester (Image: Network Rail) Network Rail said: "Unfortunately, these issues were hidden and could not have been identified during the initial non-intrusive surveys conducted prior to the commencement of work."

It added: "We're sorry for the inconvenience, as you can understand, safety remains our top priority."

The current fencing was put up after a death at the bridge in 2020, but was described by some as "ugly", prompting Network Rail to replace it with railings and vertical posts.

The original planning statement stated: "The railings to be installed will be 1.5m high from the top of the bridge parapet and approximately 2.5m high from the footpath. The railings consist of 'T' shaped posts at 2m intervals. The posts extend most of the way down the existing parapet wall and will be fixed using suitable resin anchors. Between each of the posts will be metal railings. The new railings and vertical posts are to be painted in Jet Black RAL 9005 (30 per cent gloss).”

SEE ALSO: Ministry of Justice orders 'urgent' works at HMP Winchester

The bridge on November 25 (Image: Sebastian Haw)Network Rail issued the following statement to residents: "We understand the frustration this delay may cause, especially given the lengthy wait for these repairs to begin. Please rest assured that we are committed to resolving this matter as quickly and effectively as possible.

"We will provide you with further updates, including revised timelines, as soon as more information becomes available."