BREAKING: Humber Bridge to re-open to general public after safety upgrades following high number of suicides

The board which runs the bridge took the decision to close its footpaths - used by pedestrians and cyclists - last month due to "deeply troubling" suicides.

A spokesman for the bridge board said at the time: "We understand closing the footways has been a controversial decision that has not attracted universal support.

"But we would like to reassure the public it has been taken as an emergency response to the unprecedented and deeply troubling events at the Humber Bridge over recent weeks."

The spokesman said there had been a number of individuals in the last month who had decided to take their lives at the bridge and preventing further incidents was the board's sole consideration.

The board has announced the bridge will reopen at 5am on Thursday to the general public following a consultation period and safety updates.

Thereafter the bridge will remain open from 5am to 9pm everyday with commuters wishing to cross outside these hours required to register with the bridge beforehand.

Emma Hardy, MP for Hull West and Hessle, said: "The Humber Bridge is an iconic and beautiful structure, loved by many and I know how upset people were when the walkway had to close.

"I have been meeting with the Chair of the Humber Bridge Board weekly throughout this time. I am very pleased that the Humber Bridge walkway is reopening for all users tomorrow, following an upgrade to the CCTV and establishment of a well-being hub, staffed by Mind and the Bearded Fisherman.

"I will continue to meet with the Humber Bridge Board regularly to monitor progress in the development of physical safety measures, such as barriers and keep everyone updated.”