Contractor starts work at historic Matlock bridge

G F Tomlinson has started restoration work at an historic bridge in Matlock Bath, Derbyshire, which was built to mark the Golden Jubilee of Queen Victoria.

Midlands-based G F Tomlinson is working with Derbyshire Dales District Council to deliver the £210,000 project, which will see the pedestrian bridge returned to how it would have looked when it first opened in 1887.

Expected to last several weeks, the project will see a full structural repair. All metal work will be sand-blasted and holes re-plated before the bridge is repainted and safety checks completed. Electrical works will also take place, along with the replacement of timber decking.

The former packhorse bridge dates back to the 15th century and was widened in 1925 to accommodate modern vehicles.

Andy Sewards, director at G F Tomlinson, said: “This is the first time the bridge has received any refurbishment work since its centenary year more than 25 years ago, so we’re sure it will be welcomed by the community in Matlock Bath.”

Work on the bridge is due for completion at the end of June.