A crowdfunding site with a target of £166,239 has been set up to raise funds to build a footbridge across the River Thames connecting Brentford with Kew.

The page was created by Brentford Gate Footbridge, who are seeking support for a bridge which they say will "provide new open space and vastly improve walking and cycling networks".

The stretch of the Thames between Kew Bridge and Richmond Lock Bridge is one of the longest in London without a crossing, and those proposing the plans believe it will be a great benefit to the local area.

Those behind the plans want to raise over £150,000 from the crowdfunding site

On the fundraising site, Brentford Gate Footbridge writes: "This historic stretch of the Thames is where Caesar forded the Thames, the Grand Union Canal starts, and where Brunel built his London depot for the Great Western Railway.

"It also has the word heritage site at Kew.

"Our beautiful piece of architecture will be a beacon of local pride and will link these two historic areas.

"Brentford is due to double in size, it will provide a much needed new open space with dramatic vistas."

Where will the bridge be?

It is one of the longest stretches of the Thames without a bridge

The bridge will connect the two river banks from Ferry Quays on the Hounslow side, to the Brentford entrance of Kew Gardens.

On their fundraising site, Brentford Gate Footbridge say: "Joining the Thames path on both sides, it will open up open up new walking / cycle networks – avoiding the heavy traffic on Kew Bridge.

"Linking other green spaces and parks – Syon Park, Boston Manor, Osterley House, Waterman's Park, Kew Gardens and Richmond Park – it will improve access and use, encouraging fitness and wellbeing. "

They also believe it will provide a much needed boost for the local economy by "connecting commerce and culture", with Kew Gardens and Richmond town centre being connected with Waterman's Art Centre, London Museum of Water and Steam, and other local businesses.

How much money needs to be raised?

There are plans for the bridge to be open 24 hours

Those leading the proposal are in the process of setting up a charity, which they say will be responsible for the maintenance of the bridge.

They plan to raise £10million to cover the full cost of construction, including £2.5million to fund ongoing maintenance.

An initial fund of £166,239 will be put towards the planning process.

How will the money from the fundraising site be spent?

The biggest cost of £114,000 will be spent on engineering and architectural design and costs, with other funds each totalling £12,000 going towards environmental surveys, pre application planning and the set up of a charity.

What are the next steps?

The bridge will connect Brentford with kew

There are plans for a Charitable Incorporated Organisation to be set up by November this year, to oversee the work on the bridge.

By spring 2018, architectural design, visualisations and consultations on disability access plan should be complete, with environmental assessments, engineering design set to be done at the same time.

Brentford Gate Footbridge envisage a pre-planning application to be submitted by summer 2018.

So far more than £4,000 has been raised on the fundraising site, and for more information on the project, or to donate money to the cause, visit the website .

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