Path closing until 2026 as new city bridge built

The footpath will close while the new river bridge is built and lifted into place

A footpath will close until spring 2026 as part of work to install a new pedestrian and cycle bridge over the River Trent.

The 85m (279ft) long bridge, linking the Trent Basin area in Nottingham with Lady Bay in Rushcliffe, is set to become the first new river crossing built in the city in more than 65 years.

Nottingham City Council said the footpath along the riverside between Lady Bay Bridge and the path to the play park would close from Monday.

A council spokesperson said: "We apologise both for the inconvenience and length of closure which is necessary while we build and lift the bridge into place, as well as making improvements to this footpath."

Rosie Hammond prefers walking with her children along the riverside but says the bridge will be an improvement

Some residents say they are disappointed by the closure but agree that the bridge will bring huge benefits.

Rosie Hammond, 34, from Lady Bay, said: "It's a real shame because I walk my six-month-old along there three or four times a week and bring my eldest as well to see the wildlife and nature.

"But I appreciate the bridge is going to be an improvement."

Ruth Worthy said she would miss walking along the riverside path but was looking forward to the bridge being built

Ruth Worthy, 55, who lives in West Bridgford, said: "It's disappointing, but they've got to do it. I think the bridge is going to be fantastic."

Mary Gallagher, 37, who lives in Lady Bay, said: "I think it's a temporary measure to enable work for the bridge.

"I use this path a lot, but I think you have to sometimes adjust for investment and restructure."

Adrian Hamilton said the bridge would open up the northern side of the river

Adrian Hamilton, 74, who lives near Trent Bridge, said he used the path a lot but was prepared to take diversions while the bridge was built.

"If they've got to close for a time to build the bridge, then so be it," he added.

"I think it's excellent because it's opening up the northern side of the river, and lots of people will be able to get over to West Bridgford, which is brilliant."