£12.6m contract signed for Nottingham’s first new bridge since 1950s

Nottingham City Council has signed a £12.6m contract with Balfour Beatty to build the city’s new 85 metre long walking and cycling bridge over the River Trent.

It is expected that over 100 people will be employed during the project, including four apprentices.

The network arch bridge will be 20 metres high from its deck to its peak, weighing in at 160 tonnes.

The new foot and cycle bridge will link the north side of the river where the new Trent Basin community of 350 homes continues to take shape, and the south side of the river with sports facilities, riverside walks and green spaces are close by.

This contract signing signals the start of construction for the bridge scheme, with the first activity on site the demolition of the warehouse previously used by Flo Skate Park – this is required to create the space necessary for the construction of the bridge.

The bridge, the first built in the city since the 1950s, is expected to be open by Spring 2026. It is entirely funded by the Transforming Cities Fund, provided by Central Government.

Nottingham City Council leader and Executive Member for Strategic Regeneration, Transport and Communications, Councillor Neghat Khan said: “I’m delighted to share that Nottingham City Council has officially partnered with Balfour Beatty, our trusted lead delivery partner, to bring our exciting new walking and cycling bridge to life. This ambitious project, fully funded by Central Government through the Transforming Cities Fund, marks a significant step toward a greener, more connected future.”

“I’m eager to see construction progress and watch this landmark take shape on our city’s skyline. Once completed, the bridge will enhance Nottingham’s cycling and pedestrian network, providing a safe, traffic-free route over the river and empowering more people to travel sustainably and healthily.”

Errol Wisby, portfolio director at Balfour Beatty, said: “We’re pleased to have partnered with Nottingham City Council and SCAPE to deliver this landmark project, which will enhance connectivity and promote sustainable travel in Nottingham city centre.

“We now look forward to works commencing in earnest and seeing the positive impact this project will have on Nottingham and its residents both now and in the future.”