The design of a new canal bridge poised to link the centre of Long Eaton to West Park has been revealed.
Architects unveiled the artist’s impression ahead of the unloved existing walkway being demolished as part of a huge waterfront project, funding for which comes from £25m of investment which is set to transform the town. Erewash Borough Council helped to clinch the government money in a coveted Town Deal for the borough.
A formal planning application for the new landmark spanning the Erewash Canal at Broad Street has now been submitted to the authority. Part of it sweeps over private land – whose owners have swung behind the project to help boost the town.
The local businessman who heads the Long Eaton Town Deal Board paid tribute to them – and also praised input from the Environment Agency and the Canal & River Trust.
Richard Ledger said: “The bridge and associated waterfront is a fabulous collaborative project for Long Eaton with the public and private sector working together to enable it to go forwards. Without the kind generosity of local people the project would not have been able to deliver the fabulous design that we now have.”
The existing bridge was built in 1913 and is close to the end of its lifespan. The height of it is so low that towpath walkers and cyclists have had to duck under it for more than 100 years.
One pensioner who welcomed the replacement told how he knew of somebody getting hurt.
Another local posted online: “This is WAY overdue. I knocked myself out once on the bridge as I walked under it and split my head open. It’s also very corroded and outdated. Finally some good news for Long Eaton residents.”
A woman who told how she had lived in the town for more than 20 years said of the design: “It looks good.” Long Eaton Town Deal Board chairman Richard said: “The iconic new bridge should be something that the town can be really proud of. Together with the new waterfront area for West Park the canal will be transformed from being a barrier that splits the town in half to a real asset for Long Eaton.
“There will be launching for paddle boards and kayaks together with improved access for all, including cyclists. This should draw more people into the town and through to the park.
“This project, above all, delivers on the Government’s transformational Towns Fund – with local people having driven it from conception to the finished design. I for one can’t wait to see the work starting and the difference it will make for the people of the town."