Council outlines plan to replace Baths Bridge in Durham

Durham County Council will renovate Baths Bridge in Durham City by creating a new structure across the River Wear.

Built in 1898, the bridge connects Pelaw Leazes Lane and Elvet Waterside, and is used by pedestrians daily. 

But it has been beset by safety issues for several years, causing the council to erect barriers along the bridge several years ago after identifying a deck and abutment failure. 

Last year, the local authority received £7.5 million funding from the North East Strategic Authority to support the scheme. 

North East mayor Kim McGuinness said the funding will ensure Baths Bridge can remain open for generations. 

She added: “Without our support, one of Durham’s key footbridges might have to close without anything in its place. It’s a vital link across the Wear, a perfect spot for watching all of the action at the Durham Regatta and used by so many.” 

Now, the local authority has confirmed work at the site is due to start soon. 

Mark Readman, head of highways services, said: “We are currently planning to undertake ground investigation works for the Baths Bridge replacement project, including assessing the condition of the existing bridge’s supporting structures. 

“This will inform the final design of the new structure, and we anticipate being onsite and beginning works later this year.” 

Land at Elvet Green will be used for construction access throughout the restoration. However, volunteers have criticised the council’s request for a local community group to leave the area after transforming the neglected space into a community park. 

Hemp Garden Community Association (HGCA), which has cared for the former bowling green since 2017, said it had spent thousands of hours restoring the site, which had previously been associated with litter, drug use and anti-social behaviour. 

Last year, the local authority put the former toilet block and adjoining land at Elvet Green up for sale. HGCA volunteers said they hoped to attract investors to buy into its plan to open a community cafe at the site.  

But, for now, the site is required for the bridge rebuild. 

A council spokesperson added: “We have, therefore, asked the group to vacate the land to enable these essential works to proceed and to allow for the wider regeneration of the riverside area.”