Agreement to replace flood-wrecked Cumbrian bridge

Sustrans has signed an agreement with Cumbria County Council to replace a bridge in Workington that was wrecked in last November’s floods.

The charity will provide £375,000 towards rebuilding the ruined Navvies footbridge and making it part of the UK-wide Connect2 network of linked walking and cycling routes.

The Nuclear Decommissioning authority will also provide £100,000 towards the project, and there will be a £160,000 land reclamation grant from the North West Regional Development Agency. Cumbria County Council will provide whatever else is needed to finish the job.

As well as fixing the bridge the project will improve the links from the bridge into Workington town centre, making it safer and easier for residents to walk or cycle into town.

Sustrans’ north west regional director Peter Foster said, “The floods last November clearly wreaked havoc on lives and infrastructure in the town, and we are pleased to be doing our bit in helping Workington on its way to recovery from the tragic events.”

Councillor Tony Markley, Cumbria County Council’s cabinet member responsible for economy and highways, said, “Having Sustrans on board for this project means that not only will be able to rebuild the bridge so it is a far more impressive landmark for Workington, but we’ll also be able to invest in the footpaths and cycleways linking into it.

“The people of Workington have had a very tough time, particularly in the immediate aftermath of the floods, but we are not only replacing the town’s infrastructure, we are also improving it. This means that the lasting legacy of the 2009 floods will be a positive one.”

More information on the proposed new bridge design and public consultations can be found on the Cumbria County Council site.