The footbridge near the TT grandstand will be replaced in time for next year’s TT after it was deemed unsafe.

It was closed earlier last month after inspections found it needed replacing.

However for many, it only came to light during the Festival of Motorcycling when people found they couldn’t use it to cross the course while the road was closed.

The bridge provides an access route to pedestrians from Noble’s Park to the inside of the course.

A Department of Infrastructure spokesman said: ’The current steel structure was built in the early 1980s.

’Regular inspection and maintenance has meant it has remained in use for more than 35 years, but a replacement must now be constructed to ensure the safety of the public.’

It has not been revealed what the structurally deterioration was to make the closure of the bridge necessary.

When the road is closed, people wishing to cross can use the temporary bridge at the top of Bray Hill next to St Ninian’s High School.

The DoI added: ’Design work is under way on a replacement bridge, which is scheduled to be in place before the 2020 TT festival.’