Planning permission has been granted for the construction of a new footbridge across the River Erewash next to Bennerley Viaduct, with approval issued on 15 January 2026.
Friends of Bennerley Viaduct has launched a further fundraising appeal to help deliver the scheme, which would create a new crossing and restore a circular walking route beneath and over the Grade II* listed structure. The charity says money raised will be used to purchase materials required to stabilise the river bank where the bridge will land.
The group began fundraising last year and has raised more than £20,000 towards a £50,000 target. It is seeking a further £10,000 in order to unlock potential match funding through a National Lottery Heritage Fund application currently being prepared.
Access to the monument has improved in recent months following the opening of an accessible ramp on the eastern side, reinstating access to the top of the viaduct. However, a separate bridge providing access to the nature reserve between the viaduct’s piers was suspended in summer 2024 on safety grounds and is due to be removed later this year, leaving no crossing from the Derbyshire side.
The proposed replacement would be a 14.6-metre timber and steel footbridge designed by a trustee architect in partnership with HA-EY Associates. The structure would be assembled on site before being lifted into position next to the viaduct.
According to the charity, construction would involve volunteer labour from local businesses, students from the University of Kent and members of Friends of Bennerley Viaduct.
https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/…/new-footbridge-next-to…. You can also explore ways to donate directly via the FoBV website. https://www.bennerleyviaduct.org.uk/support-our-charity/
