Scheme to protect and promote 250-year-old bridge

The bridge, which crosses the Rover Poulter in Clumber Park, could have new paving

Plans have been drawn up to protect a 250-year-old bridge damaged after a car was deliberately driven into it.

The National Trust is seeking permission to install new paving on the Grade II*-listed Clumber Bridge, near Worksop, and reinforce eroding ground nearby.

In its application to Bassetlaw planners, the trust said the work would support the River Poulter crossing’s “care and maintenance” as well as keeping it accessible “for everyone, forever”.

If approved, the work would continue on from the £500,000 restoration carried out about five years ago.

A burnt-out car was found on the bridge in March 2018 amid a trail of destruction that appeared to be "an act of intentional damage", according to the trust.

The restoration of the bridge cost half a million pounds

The bridge was rebuilt using about two-thirds of the original stonework, recovered from the water, and additional stones.

Traffic was diverted from using the bridge following the incident.

This summer, bollards were installed by the trust in place of large concrete blocks that had been in place to stop motorists.

Traffic has not used the bridge in about five years

The trust said the latest levelling and repaving work would complement the installation of the less visually-intrusive bollards.

Historic England said Clumber Bridge is “skilfully ornamented and features elegantly detailed stonework”, and the trust said it intended to make it “a more prominent visitor area” within the wider Clumber Park.

Bassetlaw District Council is expected to rule on the application by mid-January.