A footbridge across the Thames, which cost £180,000, will improve access for walkers to the centre of Oxford.

The state-of-the-art bridge, which is expected to be used by thousands walkers and cyclists each year, has been paid for by the Environment Agency.

It is near Folly Bridge and links the Thames towpath to Abingdon Road south of Folly Bridge.

The design consists of two tubular steel arches with stainless steel ropes running between them to provide a modern look.

The bridge, which forms part of the Thames Path network, was completed last month to replace the old, rusty towpath bridge number 47, which has been demolished.

The new bridge was welcomed by the Ramblers Association.

Emily Richmond, the organisation's senior countryside protection officer, said: "We are delighted the Environment Agency has recognised the importance of this popular route to Oxford city centre.

"The new footbridge will make it so much easier for the public to access the centre on foot."

Jim Campbell, chairman of leisure for Oxford City Council, welcomed the bridge which he said would make it easier for cyclists and walkers to get around the city via the towpath.

"I'm glad to see an initiative that raises the profile of pedestrians and cyclists," he said.

Bridge project engineer Kevin Broadhead said: "The bridge is important to the city as it maintains access to the city centre along the riverside.

"It is part of the Thames Path National Trail - used by both local people and tourists."

The work is one of a number of construction projects the Environment Agency is undertaking in order to improve bridges, locks and weirs along the Thames.