New Derby bridge timeframe revealed

The construction of a new bridge in Derby could take place in three to four years’ time, a councillor has told residents.

But details of how many millions it will cost and how it will look are not yet known.

Preliminary works and serious discussions are ongoing on how to permanently replace the road bridge on the River Derwent in Darley Abbey.

A “temporary” footbridge, named Walter’s Walkway, was installed a couple of years ago after the original bridge was declared unsafe following an inspection in May 2022.

The bridge connects the village part of Darley Abbey to the Darley Abbey Mills where several businesses are located.

But there has been much uncertainty over how a permanent replacement bridge can be delivered and how it can be afforded. Estimates previously have said the replacement could cost around the £8 million mark.

However, there was a positive development earlier this year when it was reported funding from the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) was allocated to start planning stages for a replacement bridge. This work includes carrying out a feasibility study, designs and firming up a business case.

It is understood the feasilibity study could be complete next year and will shed more light into the funding required.

The temporary bridge is to be in place for the next few years. Derby City Council agreed to buy it for the short term, so the route could still be used while a permanent solution is found.

This week Derby North MP Catherine Atkinson and Darley ward councillors Carmel Swan and Martin Repton met with and updated locals about the latest developments to secure funding.

Ms Atkinson said: “We will continue to work together to secure the funding for a replacement bridge and a clear timetable for the work to be completed. If secured, it is hoped that the complex demolition process could begin in the summer of 2027.”

The MP added that work to improve signage and the appearance of the temporary bridge is being called for.

Councillor Repton told his constituents on his Facebook page that the new bridge could be in place between three and four years.

He posted: “Having already been successful in getting many hundreds of thousands of pounds towards the project, we are now negotiating the further help and support of Claire Ward Mayor of the East Midlands Combined Authority. If all goes to plan we are hoping a replacement bridge could be in place by late 2028 or spring 2029. The type and design will be carefully looked into during this process.”

The latest development comes just weeks after businesses in the area said a new bridge was needed as soon as possible because trade has been hit.

Matthew Carlin, owner of the gym Reinvention Fitness in Darley Abbey Mills, said users have cancelled memberships because of the bridge closure. He said: “Especially at peak hours after work, people struggle to get here. Sometimes customers can’t make it on time for personal training sessions when they come after work, which is inconvenient to us and them.”