March 6, 2014 3.18 pm This story is over 119 months old

Hartsholme park White Bridge rebuild complete

Long time coming: The White Bridge at Hartsholme Country Park will finally be reopened to the public this week.

The newly-rebuilt White Bridge at Hartsholme Country Park in Lincoln is set to be reopened to the public this week.

The previous 100-year-old bridge was found to be unsafe for public use and was closed in July 2012, with the timber deck and upper steel work being completely removed.

The contractor is expected to hand the bridge back to the council before March 8. The bridge will then be opened to the public once all works have been finalised and inspected.

Built by Lincoln-based firm John Martin Hoyes, the new design takes in elements of the old bridge following consultation with park users and members of Hartsholme Country Park Advisory Group.

Workers have put finishing touches to the bridge this week and managed to find a 15-hour window of dry weather to set the deck coating.

The works have been delayed since September 2013, when the bridge was set to reopen initially.

White Bridge when it was two thirds complete. Photo: Ruth Holland

White Bridge when it was two thirds complete. Photo: Ruth Holland

Alan Brookfield, Project Manager at the City of Lincoln Council, said: “We’re delighted to finally be able to announce the opening of the new White Bridge. The previous bridge was an iconic feature of the park and we know it has been much missed.

“I hope people can appreciate the ambitious nature of this project to replace a 100-year-old bridge over the lake in the middle of this beautiful country park.

“The rural nature of many of the footpaths presented us with challenges due to access for heavy plant and machinery. Much of the work had to be carried out from a boat, and considering the momentous task involved we are really pleased with the end result.

“It’s fantastic to see the bridge back where it belongs and we are looking forward to seeing it being enjoyed by visitors to the park for years to come.”

White Bridge work in January 2014. Photo: Ruth Holland

White Bridge work in January 2014. Photo: Ruth Holland

White Bridge construction work in January 2014. Photo: Ruth Holland

White Bridge construction work in January 2014. Photo: Ruth Holland