New bridge to form part of town’s transformation

A spectacular new canal bridge is set to form part of a multi-million pound revamp of Long Eaton.

A planning application for the new landmark spanning the Erewash Canal at Broad Street has been submitted to Erewash Borough Council.

Linking the centre of Long Eaton to the town’s West Park, the new bridge will replace an existing walkway, which is being demolished as part of a huge waterfront project.

It is thanks to £25 million of investment, which has come for the Government’s Town Deal Fund.

Richard Ledger, who heads the Long Eaton Town Deal Board, said: “The bridge and associated waterfront is a fabulous collaborative project for Long Eaton with the public and private sector working together to enable it to go forwards.

“Without the kind generosity of local people, the project would not have been able to deliver the fabulous design that we now have.”

The existing bridge was built in 1913 and is close to the end of its lifespan.

The height of it is so low that towpath walkers and cyclists have had to duck under it for more than 100 years.

Richard said: “The iconic new bridge should be something that the town can be really proud of.

“Together with the new waterfront area for West Park the canal will be transformed from being a barrier that splits the town in half to a real asset for Long Eaton.

“There will be launching for paddle boards and kayaks together with improved access for all, including cyclists. This should draw more people into the town and through to the park.

“This project, above all, delivers on the Government’s transformational Towns Fund – with local people having driven it from conception to the finished design.

“I for one can’t wait to see the work starting and the difference it will make for the people of the town.”