The footbridge has been installed close to a Victorian railway station as part of the Sainsbury's development in Matlock to allow people to travel from the new supermarket into the town centre.

But nearby residents, who can now see the steel railings from their homes, believe that the company should have been more sensitive about its location in the conservation area.

Isabella Stone (58) of Snitterton Road, Matlock, said the plans were given the go- ahead five years ago as part of the development when few people were taking notice of the smaller details of the application.

She is now hoping to prepare a petition to try and have the bridge replaced with something more fitting.

Ms Stone said: "We were expecting a Victorian footbridge but they have put up a massive great big chunk of metal for us to look at. This is seriously awful — it's a monstrosity."

Ms Stone and her neighbours are unable to make changes to her home without planning permission because the street can be seen from the Limestone Way. But she added that the steel bridge is now part of the view from the walk and is shocked it was given planning permission.

Ms Stone said: "People in the town are shocked and horrified that this structure could have gone up in this charming little corner of the town – the station approach."

David Smith, Matlock Civic Association chairman, said that the bridge is a long walk to Sainsbury's and Peak Rail and wondered whether people were likely to use it.

Christian Wakelin, property project manager at Sainsbury's, said: "While we appreciate the comments from the local community, the final design of the pedestrian footbridge has been altered over the years to meet the requirements of Derbyshire County Council, as well as the design code standards set for the delivery of such a structure, including health and safety criteria.

"The bridge width is also determined by the standards set by the Disability Discrimination Act to ensure all members of the local community can access the store via the new footbridge."

angela.walsh@derbyshiretimes.co.uk