THE Abbey Way flyover will remain partially closed for the foreseeable future after a study revealed potential deficiencies in the ‘side walls’.

A detailed inspection revealed the main structure of the flyover is safe but experts have concerns about the effectiveness of the parapets, the barriers at the sides of the carriageway, in the event of a collision.

Work would also need to be carried out "over the next couple of years" to maintain the overall structure as an active highway, the report added.

Transport for Buckinghamshire will reopen Lily’s Walk but only in one direction - which takes motorists back onto the flyover from the Desborough direction.

TfB said it is not possible to fully reinstate Lily’s Walk as there is "not enough road width to enable two lanes and provide parapet protection".

Janet Blake, Buckinghamshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Planning and Transport, said: "It is unfortunate that we have to maintain the lane closures but now that we are aware of the issues with the parapet we have to ensure that the travelling public are protected.

"We have identified a way of easing traffic by opening Lily’s Walk in one direction and are now working closely with Wycombe District Council to agree what repairs need to be undertaken and over what period.

"Until that has been agreed the lanes on Abbey Way will have to remain closed."

The discussions between the two councils about how to maintain the flyover’s structural in the "short and medium term" are ongoing and would need to be made in light of the impending Wycombe Masterplan.

Under the Masterplan, the flyover could eventually be demolished to join Eden and the historic part of the town centre together in a bid to make Wycombe more pedestrian friendly.

Diversion signs taking motorists from the Lily’s Walk Eden car-park exit up to the M40 and Handy Cross via Desborough have been implemented.

TfB said this was to take congestion away from Bridge Street after discussions with bus firms and Eden as the busy Christmas shopping period approaches.

The flyover, built in the 1960s, has been partially closed since May 12 following the “inconclusive findings” of a routine inspection.