Design plans for a replacement Queens Bridge linking Bedford and Kempston are being finalised following the completion of demolition work on the old structure, and here’s a time-lapse of the bridge being taken down.
Bedford Borough Council said its engineering services team is now preparing updated design proposals, which are expected to go before councillors for approval over the summer.
If approved, installation work on the new bridge is expected to begin in spring 2027.
Read: Eight-week demolition of Queen’s Bridge in Kempston begins
Safety concerns
The previous bridge, which crossed the River Great Ouse near Ford End Road, was built in 1984 using ekki hardwood and was expected to have a lifespan of 40 to 50 years.
Although the structure had been regularly maintained, Bedford Borough councillors voted last year to replace it after inspections revealed serious decay and rot within the laminated timber arches.
Council documents previously described the deterioration as posing a significant safety risk.
Demolition work began earlier this year and has now been completed.
Wood reused
Read: Rot found years before Kemspton’s Queen’s Bridge closure as councillors trade blame
Some of the timber salvaged during the demolition is set to be reused in community projects across the borough.
The council said reclaimed wood will be repurposed for local arts projects, public benches and marker posts for footpaths and bridleways.
The ironwork sculpture previously located at the Ford End Road entrance to the bridge has also now been reinstated after being temporarily removed and stored during the demolition works.
New proposals
Cllr Nicola Gribble (Independent, Renhold & Ravensden), portfolio holder for environment, said work on the replacement bridge was progressing.
“We are busy moving forward with our plans for the replacement bridge, and I am delighted that our teams are currently working hard on submitting new design proposals to meet planning submission and committee approval over the next few months,” she said.
“The replacement bridge will be in the same location, and I look forward to announcing when the installation works will begin.
“In the meantime, the reclaimed wood that was salvaged during the demolition will be reused to give back to the community in the Borough for use in new projects, such as new posts for footways and benches for people to rest.”
