RESIDENTS in Aston Fields and Finstall have been warned they face disruption when a main road bridge over the railway line is replaced.

Work to replace the weak Finstall Road bridge near the rugby ground with a new steel structure is set to start on November 3.

It is estimated it will take two months to complete.

Jon Fraser, Worcestershire Highways Partnership in Bromsgrove manager, said: "The work will inevitably cause disruption, but it is essential it is done.

"We are however, in discussion with Railtrack and their contractors Birse to find ways of minimising the inconvenience."

It is expected pedestrians will be able to use the new bridge after two weeks, but motorists will face long diversions.

A proposal by the partnership to erect a temporary footbridge across the tracks has not been met with enthusiasm by troubled Railrack on account of the cost.

Mr Fraser said another idea being looked at is Railtrack's offer to improve Monarch's Way, a field footpath running parallel with the track, linking the bridges in Finstall Road and St Godwald's Road.

Another option he said is to provide a bus service for pupils affected by the bridge closure.

Pupils at Aston Fields Middle School have designed a relief cast depicting various aspects of life in Bromsgrove to adorn the bridge.