The bridge across the Derwent from Darley Abbey to Darley Abbey Mills was suddenly closed earlier in the year when safety issues were identified. After a lot of confusion as to who was responsible for the bridge, Derby City Council undertook to provide a temporary replacement.
This temporary bridge (planned for 12 months usage) has now been opened and the link across the river restored.
The bridge is open to walkers, cyclists and users of mobility aids with signage encouraging all users to be considerate of others. The original bridge supported motor traffic which never really mixed well with the other types of users as the bridge and the route through the Mills was narrow. The replacement bridge is not open to motor traffic which has the knock on effect of making the route through the Mills more attractive as only motor traffic accessing the Mills (i.e. no through motor traffic) will be encountered by pedestrians and cyclists.
The bridge has been built above the existing, damaged bridge which means that ramps are needed on each bank.
The opening event was very well attended.
Well done to Derby City Council for funding the replacement bridge and for getting it in place as quickly as they have.
The bridge removes the gap in the Derwent Valley Heritage Way that the original closure caused. It also restores the missing link in the National Cycle Network (orbital route 66).
