Home / Environment / New Bridge Replaces Historic Tram Link in Lancashire
New Bridge Replaces Historic Tram Link in Lancashire
24 Dec
Summary
- A new 140-tonne bridge replaced a 200-year-old wooden structure.
- The £6.6m project links Avenham Park and Penwortham.
- The bridge will open in spring, offering pedestrian and cycle access.
A significant infrastructure upgrade is underway in Lancashire with the installation of a new 140-tonne bridge, costing £6.6 million. This modern crossing replaces a derelict 200-year-old wooden structure that had been closed since 2019 due to safety concerns. The new bridge will re-establish a crucial pedestrian and cycle connection between Avenham Park in Preston city centre and Penwortham.
Work on the bridge, designed with a nod to Preston's industrial heritage, commenced last year. However, construction faced delays over winter due to adverse weather conditions and the need to protect breeding salmon in the River Ribble. The design features only two pillars in the river, minimizing environmental impact on the local wildlife.
Scheduled to open in the spring, the final phase of work involves completing the decking, installing handrails, and removing scaffolding. This project marks a milestone in Preston's infrastructure improvements, with the rejuvenated bridleway set to accommodate pedestrians, cyclists, and horses.
