Leamington Lift Bridge, Vertical-lift bridge in Fountainbridge, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Leamington Lift Bridge is a steel vertical-lift structure crossing the Union Canal in Fountainbridge with its deck suspended between two gantry towers. It features a wooden riding surface and an adjacent lattice girder footbridge that allows pedestrians to cross while the main span is raised.
Built in 1906 by Armstrong-Whitworth of Newcastle, the bridge was relocated to its current site in 1922 when the canal was shortened to Lochrin Basin. This relocation demonstrated the structural soundness of the design and made it a rare example of a relocated lift bridge.
The bridge stands as a working technical landmark that connects the area's industrial past with modern leisure use along the waterway. The 2021 Red Wheel plaque demonstrates how locals and visitors recognize it as part of Edinburgh's engineering heritage.
The bridge deck rises about 9 feet to allow boat passage, which means visitors may encounter longer wait times during active lift operations. A separate set of stairs nearby provides the quickest pedestrian route when the main span is raised.
Boat operators receive specialized training from Scottish Canals to control the electrical lifting mechanism themselves, turning the crossing into an interactive experience. This self-operating capability is uncommon among canal bridges in the region.
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