Work begins on new Erewash Canal bridge to improve links in Long Eaton

Work is now underway on a new bridge over the Erewash Canal in Long Eaton, which is expected to become an important connection for residents. The bridge will create a traffic-free link between the canal towpath and the Canal Street area of the town. The project is being delivered by construction firm Stepnell, which is also responsible for replacing the ageing Broad Street bridge at West Park. The new canal bridge is due to be completed by the summer.

Richard Ledger, chair of the Long Eaton Town Deal Board, welcomed the start of the works. He said it was encouraging to see another town deal project moving forward, adding that the bridge will make it much easier for people in the Canal Street area to access the canal towpath. He highlighted the significant effort involved in getting the schemes underway and said he was looking forward to seeing more projects finished so the whole community can benefit.

The Long Eaton Town Deal secured almost £25 million in government funding in 2020 to support major improvements across the town. Other planned developments include turning a former stable block behind the town hall into modern office space, creating a new mixed commercial and residential scheme on the site of the former Galaxy Row cinema on Derby Road, and upgrading the high street. West Park has already seen new lighting installed and the creation of an events field, alongside work on a replacement bridge that will reconnect the park with Broad Street.