Cathedral Green Footbridge, Swing footbridge in Derby, England
The Cathedral Green Footbridge is a modern crossing that spans the River Derwent in Derby, linking the Cathedral Quarter to the riverbank. The steel structure features a distinctive needle-shaped mast and provides a dedicated path for walkers and cyclists to move between these areas.
Construction of this modern footbridge began in 2007, with its official opening in 2009, marking a turning point in Derby city center development. The project was part of a larger effort to improve pedestrian and cycling connections across the city.
The needle-shaped mast design draws inspiration from textiles that were once the heart of Derby's economy, echoing the tools used in the Silk Mill nearby. This form serves as a visible reminder of the city's manufacturing past and its connection to skilled craftsmanship.
The bridge is open to walkers and cyclists at all times and provides a level, easy-to-navigate path. Be aware that high river levels may trigger the bridge's automatic rotation system, which creates brief movement but the structure remains entirely safe.
The bridge incorporates a pintle bearing system allowing a single operator to rotate the entire structure in roughly 20 minutes when river traffic needs to pass. This clever engineering solution balances sophistication with ease of daily operation.
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