Removal of Preston’s Old Tram Bridge begins

Closed since 2019 amid safety concerns, the structure that links Preston and South Ribble is being dismantled bit by bit to pave the way for the creation of a £7m replacement.

Eric Wright Civil Engineering and demolition contractor Pete Marquis have today begun the process of taking apart Old Tram Bridge, which is located in Preston’s Avenham Park and crosses the River Ribble.

The method of the demolition will see an excavator cut the bridge into sections before lifting out and removing them from the site, according to Preston City Council. The method and timing of the work have been authorised by the Environment Agency and the Marine Management Organisation and are aimed at minimising the impact on the river.

Work to remove the bridge is expected to last until the middle of September. The replacement tram bridge, which will be used by pedestrians and cyclists, is expected to open to the public in early 2026

The replacement of the Old Tram Bridge is being delivered by Preston City Council using part of a £20m grant awarded from the previous government’s Levelling Up Fund.

Cllr Valerie Wise, cabinet member for community wealth building at Preston City Council, said: “This is a significant moment for the project which I’m sure will attract interest from the public.

“Given the rich history of the bridge, the demolition will bring mixed emotions to local residents. This is an important step in delivering a new bridge that will serve the community for decades to come and restore this key transport link for people between Preston and South Ribble.”

The original bridge was built in 1802 and was restored during the 20th century. The current bridge piers, which are made of reinforced concrete, date back to the 1930s. The pre-stressed concrete deck dates to the 1960s.

The replacement structure has been designed by DYSE Structural Engineers and visualised by Preston architect Studio John Bridge.