The demolition of Preston’s 200-year-old Tram Bridge over the River Ribble has commenced.
- The bridge, closed in 2019 due to structural concerns, will be replaced by a new crossing.
- Eric Wright Civil Engineering holds the £6.6 million contract for the replacement project.
- Local firm Pete Marquis Ltd is managing the demolition process, with environmental precautions in place.
- Completion of the new bridge is anticipated by early 2026, restoring a vital link for the community.
The dismantling of the iconic Old Tram Bridge, a vital link between Avenham Park and Penwortham, marks the end of an era. Originally shut down by Preston City Council in 2019 over fears of collapse, the bridge’s demolition is seen as a necessary step towards the construction of a new, safer structure.
Eric Wright Civil Engineering has been entrusted with a £6.6 million contract to erect the new bridge. The current demolition process, subcontracted to Preston-based Pete Marquis Ltd, is methodically planned in consultation with the Marine Management Organisation and the Environment Agency. This collaborative effort ensures minimal disruption to the local aquatic life, with specific attention paid to fish spawning seasons.
A significant aspect of the demolition is the construction of an access track into the river, facilitating the use of a large excavator to cut the bridge into sections, which are then systematically removed. This meticulous procedure ensures that the structural dismantling progresses smoothly, adhering to the timeline set to avoid any ecological impact, and predicted to conclude by mid-September.
Once demolition concludes, efforts will immediately shift to laying foundations for the first pier within the River Ribble, targeted for completion prior to winter to accommodate weather conditions. Subsequent construction phases include work on bridge abutments and piers, with the final river pier scheduled for summer 2025. The new bridge structure is slated for installation in autumn 2025, with an overall project completion set for early 2026.
The old structure, originally a timber bridge for coal transport, has a rich history rooted deeply in Preston’s industrial past. Its transformation into a concrete structure over the years reflects both the growing demands and evolving technologies that have shaped the region’s infrastructure. Local sentiment is mixed, with many residents fondly recalling the bridge’s contribution to community connectivity, as expressed by council member Valerie Wise. Her statement underscores the bridge’s historic and socio-economic significance.
The replacement of the Old Tram Bridge is poised to restore a crucial transport link, preserving its historical legacy for future generations.
