Historic Burton bridge reopens

A historic bridge in Burton-on-Trent that opened in the same year that the Eiffel Tower was completed has reopened after a £1.5 million restoration.

The Grade II listed footbridge is a crucial link between Burton and Stapenhill across the Rover Trent and has been refurbished by Staffordshire County Council’s highways partner, Amey.

On opening the bridge, Staffordshire County Council leader Philip Atkins said: “We’re pleased the restoration of Ferry Bridge has been so successful and is now fully open. This has been a detailed project, which has involved meticulous planning due to its nature.

“It’s far from a normal bridge repair – Ferry Bridge is an iconic local landmark which is listed. We have made a significant investment in this project as we wanted to ensure that it is preserved and protected for future generations.”

Ferry Bridge opened in 1889 as a replacement for a ferry service and is maintained by the council, which strengthened its piers three years ago.

After that work, a detailed restoration plan was drawn up by a working group made up of county, borough and parish councillors, engineers, English Heritage, borough planning officers, Burton Civic Society and the Friends of Ferry Bridge.

The restoration project included full grit blasting and repainting, installing new timber decking and handrails, strengthening the parapet and replacing deteriorated components. The bridge has also been re-painted in its original black and white colour scheme.