New bridge arrives at Nottinghamshire nature reserve after three-year closure

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 13 Oct, 07:02 · Archive

A replacement bridge has arrived at Attenborough Nature Reserve in Nottinghamshire, three years after the original structure closed for safety reasons.

The Works Bridge at Attenborough Nature Reserve near Beeston closed in April 2023 after a safety inspection revealed it was in a state of disrepair and posed a danger to life. The closure forced the footpath to be shut and walking routes through the reserve to be diverted. Plans to demolish and replace the bridge were approved by Broxtowe Borough Council in September.

The new bridge, built in Wigan and weighing 25 tonnes, arrived on site in two sections on Monday, lifted into place by large cranes. The old structure was removed on Tuesday. Paul Wilkinson, chief executive of Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust which manages the reserve, said the new bridge would need inspection and landscaping work before reopening. He expected the bridleway to be fully reopened within a couple of weeks, with all work finished well in time for the end of 2026.

The bridge forms part of a bridleway through the reserve that connects The Strand and Meadow Lane. Once complete, it will restore this walking route for visitors to the nature reserve.

How it is being reported

• Replacement bridge arrives at nature reserveThe existing structure has been closed since 2023 due to safety concerns.BBC Nottingham · 13 Oct, 06:48
• Major update in plans for new bridge at Nottinghamshire nature reserve after three-year closureThe bridge closed to the public in April 2023 following a safety inspectionNottinghamshire Live · 12 Oct, 17:40

In this story: Attenborough Nature Reserve · Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust · Broxtowe Borough Council · Paul Wilkinson · Nottinghamshire · Beeston

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