A ‘Wembley’-style arch? It’s Long Eaton’s new bridge!

Span-tastic - the new Long Eaton arch is part of new bridge that is being built – and is reminiscent of the Wembley Stadium arch.

A triumphant-looking arch reminiscent of the iconic one at Wembley has been craned into place in one of Erewash’s towns – just in time for England’s first game of the World Cup finals.

The monumental metal structure in Long Eaton was constructed amid the countdown to football’s biggest tournament, and appears designed to gladden the hearts of Three Lions fans.

But the borough council is stressing that any inspiration it gives to Harry Kane and his men is just a lucky coincidence. The arch spans a stretch of the Erewash Canal – and is actually part of a spectacular new bridge that is taking shape.

The crossing at Broad Street is among a string of projects funded by £25million of “Town Deal” investment that the borough council clinched from the government.

A video of the arch’s main segment being carefully winched into position can be viewed here on the council’s YouTube channel.

The crossing is the second of two new ones across the canal that will improve connectivity for local people. The other footbridge and cycle path is at Britannia Mills and will officially be declared open later this month.

Local businessman Richard Ledger, who chairs the Long Eaton Town Deal Board, said as work also ramps up on a showcase £10million project to transform the centre of town: “The arch is truly amazing – and if it helps to boost the England team so much the better.

“It was a painstaking construction job to put it in place – and gives an indication of just how magnificent the new landmark canal bridge will be. There will also be an entire new waterfront for local people to enjoy.”