A bridge too far linking the Bennerley Viaduct

A footbridge over the River Erewash at the western end of the Bennerley Viaduct has been condemned as unsafe after flood damage, and will shortly be closed to the public.

The bridge belongs to Harworth Estates, owners of the old coal plant land to the north of the viaduct. 

Kate Crossley is the CEO of the Friends of Bennerley Viaduct. She said: “This bridge has been a great asset to visitors getting access to the nature reserve underneath the viaduct from the western end.  We are grateful to Harworth for sharing this route while they could. There will still be access to the underneath via the gate to the left of the new eastern ramp.” 

“But losing the bridge is a significant blow to our efforts to open the site. It is hugely disrupting to the circular walk that has been a favourite for visitors. For many, especially school groups and those with limited mobility, the longer alternative routes are simply not practical. The bridge was our main access point across the river for work parties, crucial for maintaining our beautiful nature area.”

To address this pressing issue, the Friends group is launching a fundraising campaign to construct a new footbridge directly under the viaduct. In a heartening development for the Friends, Trustee Ron Yee and engineer colleagues from the University of Kent have stepped in and offered a prototype bridge design that can be built by the group, saving the charity thousands in fees. 

Kate added: “This will be a massive collaborative effort, but FoBV have always found a way to overcome setbacks together.” 

There will be more information coming soon about the fundraising campaign but if you want to be involved you can email info @ bennerleyviaduct.org.uk or send a donation, with the reference Bridge.