We have built a new walking and cycling bridge over the River Trent in Nottingham, marking a significant step towards creating a greener, better-connected route for local communities.
Delivered on behalf of Nottingham City Council through the SCAPE Civil Engineering Framework, the Waterside Bridge is the city’s first new river crossing in more than 65 years. Designed exclusively for pedestrians and cyclists, it will strengthen east–west connections between the Trent Basin area and Lady Bay, offering sustainable travel options and improved access to nearby parks, sports grounds and community amenities.
The bridge forms a central part of the Council’s Transforming Cities Fund programme, supporting long-term plans to enhance connectivity and encourage more sustainable journeys across Nottingham.
A landmark moment
The bridge lift marked a significant milestone in the delivery of the scheme. The 87-metre, 161-tonne structure was carefully raised from its supports, rotated and placed precisely onto its new abutments using one of the largest crawler cranes in Europe.
This complex operation followed months of detailed planning, extensive technical modelling and close collaboration with project partners and the Council. Specially engineered crane mats and track systems were installed to safely support the lift, manage ground pressure and protect the riverside environment.
tonne bridge safely lifted into place
metres long
years since city’s last river crossing
Crowds gathered along the riverbank to watch the bridge touch down – a historic moment for Nottingham’s skyline and a powerful signal of the city’s investment in sustainable transport.
With the main structure now in place, teams are progressing works to complete:
- access ramps, steps and walkways
- a smaller crossing over the Trent Basin inlet
- landscaping, planting and new public realm spaces
Bringing communities together
Throughout the project, the team has worked closely with Nottingham City Council and local stakeholders to ensure the bridge delivers long-term community benefits.
This includes creating job opportunities for local people and suppliers within a 20-mile radius, delivered curriculum-linked engagement with schools, supported local charities and taken part in volunteering initiatives that benefit the wider community. Many of those working on the scheme live locally, making the milestone especially meaningful for colleagues who will use the bridge themselves.
The bridge is expected to open in late spring 2026.