The demolition of Preston's historic tram bridge, a 200-year-old landmark connecting Avenham Park and Penwortham, is set to begin. The bridge, closed in 2019 due to concerns over its structural integrity, will be replaced with a modern, sustainable structure.
The £6.6 million project marks a significant milestone in the restoration of this important active travel route. The demolition process, expected to be completed by mid-September, will involve the creation of an access track into the River Ribble. A large excavator will be used to carefully cut the bridge into sections, which will then be lifted out and removed from the site.
To ensure minimal disruption to the local ecosystem, the demolition has been carefully timed to avoid the spawning season of smelt and coarse fish in the River Ribble. This careful planning is a result of collaboration between the project team, the Environment Agency, and local ecologists.
County Councillor Aidy Riggott, cabinet member for economic development and growth, highlighted the project's importance in achieving the council's levelling up ambitions: "Providing good sustainable transport links that allow people to stay healthy by enjoying the outdoors is a key aspect of our levelling up ambitions. The new bridge will restore an important active travel route between South Ribble and Preston city centre for pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders."
The new bridge, designed by architect John Bridge, will feature a sustainable design with only two pillars in the river, minimising its impact on the water. Funded by Levelling Up funding and Lancashire County Council, the crossing is expected to open in 2026, providing a vital link for active travel and contributing to the revitalisation of the area.
The demolition of the historic tram bridge represents the end of an era, but also the start of a new chapter for this vital transport link. The new bridge, designed with a focus on sustainability and accessibility, promises to benefit the community for years to come.
