Designs revealed for new bridge over River Trent

Proposals for scheme that will see a new pedestrian and cycle crossing built over the River Trent have been shared today (Monday 8 November).

The new Waterside Bridge, funded through the Government’s Transforming Cities Fund, is designed to expand the routes available for cyclists, pedestrians and runners, providing a quieter, safer option for commuter and leisure trips between the Waterside regeneration area on the north bank and Lady Bay on the south.

New and enhanced connecting paths and crossing points will connect the bridge to the wider walking and cycling network.

Councillor Rosemary Healy, Portfolio Holder for Transport at Nottingham City Council, said: “We’re really excited to share these new images of the proposed bridge, which would be the first to be built over the Trent in Nottingham for more than 60 years.

“There is clearly a need for more crossings like this over the Trent and this bridge would open up safer, quieter routes for people walking, cycling or running, whether for commuting or leisure, making it easier for people to travel in a more sustainable way.

“These proposals will also support local growth by creating strong links between the new developments in the city centre and West Bridgford, and by connecting to our existing walking and cycling routes to make the whole city accessible.

“As many of us have discovered in the last 18 months, our green and open spaces are so important for physical and mental wellbeing. This scheme has the added benefit of providing easier access to open spaces south of the river, as well as the sports grounds and leisure facilities, and to Colwick Park on the north side.

“Encouraging more sustainable, lower carbon journeys is an important part of our plan to achieve Carbon Neutral Nottingham 2028. We want to create the necessary infrastructure to enable people to make smarter choices about how they travel, reducing our collective impact on climate change.”

The project is being led by Nottingham City Council, working in partnership with Rushcliffe Borough Council and in consultation with Nottinghamshire County Council.

Leader of Rushcliffe Borough Council, councillor Simon Robinson, said: “We look forward to hearing people’s views on the new bridge that could make a positive impact on existing sustainable and integrated local transport plans and connect residents with opportunities for work and leisure on both sides of the Trent.

“The environment is a key priority for us and we wish to build on partnerships with the City and County Councils on initiatives that promote our low carbon ambitions.

“The bridge could aid many thousands of people potentially lowering their carbon footprints even further through a key route for walking and cycling to and from Rushcliffe and wider Nottingham.”