A celebration which was set to be held on August 3rd to mark the completion of work to install a ramp at the eastern end of the Bennerley Viaduct has been postponed.
Until now people using child buggies, wheelchairs, or mobility scooters could only get up to the deck from the western end (Erewash Canal towpath). Cyclists have had to carry their machines up or down the eastern steps. The new ramp converts the viaduct into a through route for everyone.
However, although a ribbon cutting ceremony was due to be held this weekend, followed by a free guided walk, the event at the grade II* listed Bennerley Viaduct has been postponed due to safety concerns.
A statement said that contractors need more time to finish safety features on the ramp before they can hand the site back to the Friends of Bennerley Viaduct for public use.
The opening celebrations planned and advertised for Saturday 3rd August will now be held at the earliest possible future date.
John Scruton, chair of the trustees of the Friends of Bennerley Viaduct said the postponement was regrettable but the safety of the public was paramount. “There are some unforeseen snags in the final stages of construction. Quite rightly the contractors will not sign off the work until they are satisfied with all aspects of the project. We apologise to everyone who was planning to attend the opening on Saturday and we hope to see them on the rearranged date, which we will announce as soon as we can.”
John Scruton added that there was still plenty to see and do at the viaduct. “Visitors can continue to enjoy the view from the deck of the viaduct by using the western ramp from the Erewash Canal towpath, and we are creating new access to the western end of the site from the Nottingham Canal towpath. A path will lead from the canal to the existing gate to the left of the new ramp. Going through the gate takes you to the nature reserve under the viaduct.” The new path will still be open from Saturday 3rd August.
Work is set to start soon on phase two, the car park and visitor centre accessed from Shilo Way. All of the work at the eastern end of the viaduct is part of the Kimberley Means Business project, managed by Broxtowe Borough Council and with finance from Funded by UK Government.
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