The bridge has been in an unsafe condition on the brink of collapse since early June.
The deterioration in condition means that Derby City Council is using emergency powers under the Building Act 1984 to take direct action to dismantle the structure and remove the danger to the public.
Derby City Council said:
‘Walter’s Walkway has now been successfully lifted and removed. This is a significant step forward that allows our contractors to begin essential pre-demolition works and structural checks.
‘With the walkway gone, the original bridge structure is now visible. The old bridge remains in an extremely fragile, structurally compromised state. It cannot support weight, and any attempt to cross it poses a severe and immediate risk to life.
‘While the warm weather makes the river tempting, your safety must always take priority. Please act responsibly and resist the temptation to cool off in the water.
‘With the site entering the next critical phase, we ask everyone to continue supporting our teams by keeping well away from the area and strictly adhering to the following rules:
- DO NOT attempt to access or cross the fragile original bridge under any circumstances.
- DO NOT bypass the safety fencing or enter the active construction site.
- DO NOT enter the water near the bridge or the weir. This applies to swimmers as well as all watercraft, including boats, canoes, paddle boards and kayaks.
Security teams remain on-site 24/7, and the area will continue to be fenced and patrolled.’
