Long Eaton bridge comes down as town gets two new ones

Broad St Bridge artists impression - credit: EBC

The construction of a spectacular curved footbridge that will sweep over the Erewash Canal takes a major step forward next week – as engineers begin dismantling the old crossing that it will replace.

The existing metal bridge has stood for more than a century despite being built so low that towpath users in Long Eaton risked banging their heads on it.

It was nearing the end of its lifespan – and crews are set to start disassembling it on Monday (2nd March).

The dramatic bridge that will take its place at Broad Street is poised to become a new local landmark. It will be accompanied by the building of a new waterfront giving access to the canal – and which is designed to be a public space where events can be held.

The crossing is one of two new canal bridges that will improve connectivity for residents thanks to the £25million Long Eaton Town Deal – which is Government regeneration funding that Erewash Borough Council helped to clinch.

The other footbridge is at Britannia Mills, where new affordable homes are being built. It is set to be craned into place within the next few weeks, according to a report to the Long Eaton Town Deal Board.

The Canal & River Trust has been involved in preparations – with piling works said to be “progressing well” despite the recent wet weather.

Local businessman Richard Ledger, who chairs the board, said: “Crane activities to lift the bridge into position are scheduled for around Friday 13 March. These are truly exciting times for Long Eaton as a host of Town Deal projects start coming to fruition – with others well on track to be delivered in the timeframes that have been agreed with the Government.”

The transformation of a what used to be a complex of stables next to the town hall is among completed projects. The buildings have been converted into a swish new business centre – with a string of firms moving in after the Mayor was officially handed the keys in January.

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In West Park the Town Deal has funded the installation of new lighting – along with the creation of a new events field.

Elsewhere in the town, work has started on building a new commercial centre following the demolition of Derby Road’s derelict Galaxy cinema. Affordable housing is part of the project.