This bridge was reinstated by the Cotswold Canals Trust in 1994 and was the first road lift-bridge in the world to be made entirely of advanced composite materials. It is hydraulically operated, with the pivot point at the left-hand end in the top photo.
The bridge provides access to the Bond's Mill Business Estate and is 4.3m wide by 8.2m long and is suitable for single-lane traffic and articulated vehicles up to 44 tonnes in weight.
Since its opening there have been issues with the bridge deck and capability of the hydraulic lifting system. For these reasons the bridge will be replaced during the Phase 1B restoration programme with one similar in design to Lodgemore Bridge in Stroud (but with two overhead balance arms, not one).
Restoration
Preparatory work has now started at Bond's Mill to instal a temporary road bridge over the canal. This will allow continued access to the estate while the 1994 bridge is removed, and the replacement lift bridge is constructed.
(Tap / click images to enlarge)
