Final designs and location details of the replacement foot and cycle bridge that will link the residential area of Chaddesden to the Wyvern are being shared with local residents and stakeholders.

The new bridge will be a modern, well designed structure that will provide a significant enhancement to walking and cycling facilities in the area. It will create a fully accessible link between residential and commercial areas for pedestrians, cyclists, wheelchair, mobility scooter and pushchair users, and will offer many improvements over the existing bridge with ramped approaches, a four metre wide deck and a resin anti-slip surface. The bridge will also have handrail lighting and decorative arch lighting, designed to have minimal impact on nearby residential properties whilst providing safety for bridge users.

Before the new bridge is constructed, some of the existing shrubs and trees will be removed. This needs to be done before the bird nesting season starts in Spring. New trees and shrubs will be planted when the footings for the bridge are complete, and 30,000 additional trees will be planted along the A52 in the Waterford Drive area. This is in partnership with Trees for Cities. The Council will be asking for volunteers to assist with the tree planting.

Councillor Matthew Holmes, Cabinet Member Leadership, Regeneration & Public Protection said:

I am delighted that we are now in a position to announce the new bridge design which will give improved accessibility to and from The Wyvern enhancing walking and cycling facilities. The modern design will further enhance the landscape, along with the thousands of trees that will be planted in the area, to encourage local wildlife and improve biodiversity in the local area. I would like to encourage as many local people as possible to come forward and volunteer to be involved in the tree planting, and be part of the future landscape of the city.

Further details will be announced on the tree planting scheme as soon as they have been confirmed. Anybody who is interested in taking part is being encouraged to get in touch by email traffic.management@derby.gov.uk, or telephone 01332 640815.

More details on the bridge design and location can be viewed on the A52 web pages.