A PLAN to protect the 125-year-old bridges which straddle Rugby’s Great Central Walk has been backed by the Borough Council’s Cabinet.
The Cabinet has approved plans for a £1.925million three-year programme of work to protect the bridges.
The bridges, built around 1900, remain safe for pedestrians and road users after recent inspections found no urgent danger, with immediate health and safety measures already in place where needed.
However, the inspections also showed several bridges need investment to make sure they remain structurally sound in the future.
The programme for structural monitoring, vegetation clearance and repair work will focus on the highest-priority bridges, including structures at Bridge Street and Clifton Road, before moving to further works in 2027-28.
The work would also include the removal of the redundant Staveley Way abutment, reducing future maintenance costs.
The Great Central Walk bridges were transferred to the council from British Rail in the 1970s.
They have been affected by water getting into the structures, vegetation growth, general wear, and historic corrosion linked to the former railway.
Coun Sam Edwards, Rugby Borough Council portfolio holder for operations and transformation, said: “The most important message for residents is that the bridges are safe.
“But they are also around 125 years old, and they need the right investment now to keep them in good condition for the future.
“The Great Central Walk is an important route for walking, cycling and enjoying green space. By acting now, we can deal with the issues found in recent inspections, protect public safety, and help make sure these bridges remain sound for another 125 years.”
The council says the programme will adopt a phased approach to bridge maintenance, with regular inspections and repairs helping to reduce long-term costs and avoid more serious problems in future.
A final decision on funding will be made at a meeting of full council.
