The incident is believed to have happened sometime between 2am and 4.44am on Friday, November 20 and it is being treated as suspicious.
When a fire engine arrived at the scene the flames were out but the damage had already been done. The bridge is used by those entering the park from the new entrance on Ponteland Road to walk to the Memorial Hall and Callerton Lane.
East Tynedale Neighbourhood Inspector Kevin Oates said: “This is being treated as a case of arson. Together with the fire brigade, police are investigating this incident.
“I would urge anyone with information about the persons responsible for this malicious act of vandalism to contact East Tynedale CID on 03456 043043, extension 61460.”
The footbridge had only recently been refurbished by Northumberland County Council and Ponteland Town Council Mayor Robin Ramsay said talks have already begun with the unitary council about getting it re-built quickly.
“It’s very disappointing as it appears a few mindless people have caused so much disruption by making an important thoroughfare unusable. We are in discussions with Northumberland County Council to get the footbridge repaired as soon as possible, even to the point of possibly making a contribution to the works.”