New A52 bridge ‘an enhancement’
LINK AIMS TO IMPROVE JOURNEY TIMES AND WYVERN ACCESS
THESE images show what a new A52 footbridge in Derby will look like – and work is set to officially begin in the coming weeks.
Derby City Council has released two images showing the proposed appearance of the bridge connecting Meadow Lane in Chaddesden and the Wyvern at Pride Park – which is set to feature “decorative arch lighting”.
The project is part of the ongoing multi-million-pound A52 project which is aimed at improving journey times and pedestrian and cycling access around the Wyvern.
The council says the new bridge will be a modern structure that will provide “a significant enhancement to walking and cycling facilities in the area”.
A city council spokeswoman has said these are the final designs and planning permission has already been granted.
As part of the structure, existing trees surrounding the bridge will be removed before the spring in time for the bird nesting season. They will then be replaced with 30,000 trees along the A52 in the Waterford Drive area of Chaddesden.
The new design has been released amid concerns raised by Derby County fans about the safety of the existing footbridge on mathchdays. Derby City Council images of a new footbridge over the A52 linking Meadow Lane in Chaddesden with the Wyvern at Pride Park. Work is expected to start in the coming weeks
Rams season ticket holder Karl Shaw, 43, and others have called for progress to be made on the new bridge following concerns over congestion on matchdays.
The city council responded to the comments and has urged supporters not to run out on the road to avoid queuing to cross the bridge.
The council says the new bridge will also have handrail lighting to provide safety for users.
A council statement says: “The bridge will create a fully accessible link between residential and commercial areas for pedestrians, cyclists, wheelchair, mobility scooter and pushchair users, and will offer many improvements over the existing bridge with ramped approaches, a four-metre wide deck and a resin anti-slip surface.”
Councillor Matthew Holmes, cabinet member for leadership, regeneration and public protection said: “I am delighted we are now in a position to announce the new bridge design, which will give improved accessibility to and from The Wyvern, enhancing walking and cycling facilities.
“The modern design will further enhance the landscape, along with the thousands of trees that will be planted in the area, to encourage local wildlife and improve biodiversity in the local area.”
■ The council is calling for volunteers to help with the tree planting. Those interested should call 01332 640815.