Work starts on footbridge across canal in the city
Structure will span Grand Union Canal in Belgrave
CONSTRUCTION work on a footbridge across the Grand Union Canal has got under way.
The bridge will link the new housing developments at the former Wolsey factory site on Sock Island and the British United Shoe Machinery (BUSM) site on the opposite bank of the canal in Belgrave.
Leicester City Council said the bridge will also provide a direct and attractive route for pedestrians and cyclists between Abbey Meadows and Belgrave and improve access to the canal towpath.
The Bennion Footbridge is being named after the businessman, philanthropist and owner of the BUSM empire Charles Bennion, who bought Bradgate Park for the people of Leicestershire in 1928.
It should be finished by the end of the year.
Work will be carried out on behalf of Leicester City Council by Countryside as part of the final phase of the developer’s £25 million regeneration of the former Wolsey Factory site.
It is creating 188 homes and apartments with housing association
Midland Heart. Construction of the footbridge will cost about £900,000, funded entirely through Section 106 contributions linked to the housing development on Sock Island.
A new path will link the bridge to the historic Wolsey water tower, which was retained and converted as part of the housing development.
City mayor Sir Peter Soulsby said: “Leicester boasts some beautiful riverside settings but it is only recently we have begun to see development that realises the enormous potential of these areas.
“The housing development at Wolsey Island is really something quite special and Countryside and
Midland Heart are to be applauded for their ambitious vision to create a thriving neighbourhood at this fantastic location.
“The new Bennion Footbridge will play an important part in this.
“It will provide a much-improved link for people who walk or cycle, encourage more exploration of the city’s beautiful waterways and provide a fitting nod to the history of this important location.
“I hope this inspires other landowners to see the potential for their own sites and helps to bring more of the city’s riverside back into use as places to live and work.”
Glyn Mabey, managing director of Partnerships East Midlands, Countryside, said: “We pride ourselves not only on creating desirable neighbourhoods but also our commitment to placemaking by improving the areas in and around our developments.
“The connectivity the footbridge will bring will be a real benefit to all and help reignite the many positive attributes this city has to offer its residents. We are excited this final part of the project is under way.”
Glenn Harris, chief executive of Midland Heart, said: “It’s been a pleasure working with Countryside and the city council to bring a number of much-needed affordable homes to the heart of Leicester.
“This bridge will be the final chapter in the Wolsey Island story, providing a lasting physical link between the city and the thriving community we’ve created on the island.”