Exciting news! On Thursday 21st March construction on a new ramp at Bennerley Viaduct begins. This is the realisation of a dream we’ve held for a long time; a fully accessible connection over the river valley. Here’s what you need to know:
🔒 Closure Area: From March 21st, the steps side, the Nottinghamshire side of the viaduct will be closed until approximately November. The pathways to the nature area underneath will be closed on the Nottingham side. Parking around the Naphtha Kennels lane will not be available as construction traffic will need access.
🚶 Access: You can still walk to the top of the viaduct from the Erewash canal side, but you’ll have to turn back the same way. The nature area below is open. The footbridge that was used for access over the River Erewash has been permanently closed, we will be fundraising for a new community bridge to replace the closed one and aim to install that in the Spring.
🗺️ Alternative Paths: Check out the map below for alternative footpaths we’ve marked for your convenience. These are public footpaths. There are other pathways around but some routes cross private land so please be respectful of our neighbours.
🍂 Future Plans: Once the ramp is built, the full circular walk will be open again! This is projected to be in November. After that, we will start building the Visitor Centre and car park. This won’t affect access to the top much, except for perhaps for short periods and we’ll communicate if that happens. This second phase will take about 16 weeks. We’re aiming to welcome you all to a finished site in the Spring. Do not worry, we will be sure to announce when we host a soft-launch event once the new ramp is open.
🙏 Thank You: We truly appreciate your patience during this exciting phase. After this construction, the viaduct will finally be accessible from all sides, a dream we’ve long hoped for.
📞 Get in Touch: If you need to report any issues, contact the construction company (emergency and non-emergency info will be posted on the safety fencing). For other concerns, please email the Friends of Bennerley Viaduct by social media or at info@bennerleyviaduct.org.uk. Your support helps us keep this place safe, clean, and welcoming for everyone.
🌟 Thank You for Being Part of Our Journey: We’re thrilled to have you on board for these incredible developments at Bennerley Viaduct! Stay tuned for more updates as the construction progresses!
The ramp, car park, and visitor centre Bennerley are part of a wider project investing £16.5 million to improve facilities and active travel networks around Kimberley, funded by the UK Government through the Levelling Up Fund and Broxtowe Borough Council.
