Network Rail has revealed plans to repair the rusty and rotting footbridge in Sydney Gardens that crosses the Great Western Main Line.
The footbridge in Sydney Gardens
The Grade II* listed structure, which was built about 1841, is the only remaining Brunel cast iron footbridge on the railway line from London to Bristol.
In 2022 Network Rail carried out masonry repairs on the parapets and abutments and shortly afterwards Historic England added the bridge to its at-risk register due to the surface rust on the span.
Network Rail is now applying to Bath & North East Somerset Council for listed building consent to carry out more repair and maintenance works following a structural assessment.
Sydney Gardens, built in 1795, were the largest pleasure gardens created outside of London.
When the railway was routed through the gardens, the footbridge and retaining walls were intended to enhance, rather than detract from visitors’ experience.
Network Rail’s report says that whilst some of the footbridge may not be original, it is on the whole unchanged since its original construction.
The timber deck has been periodically replaced over the years and currently there are damp and rotting timber areas.
The proposed works include replacing the deck with one that is more durable, along with grit blasting and painting the footbridge, while working off scaffold.
The proposed non-slip surfacing has been used on other listed structures such as Victoria Bridge in Bath.
The report adds that vegetation sprouting from the footbridge will be removed using hand tools and the stonework will be carefully jet washed. Masonry repairs will be made where necessary.
The footbridge will be painted in the original colours of pale brown, cream and black brown as discussed with Historic England.
The planning reference is 25/02855/LBA and the deadline for comments is 29th August.
