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A bridge that has been closed for 18 months has been re-opened to the public.

The Wilford Suspension Bridge in Nottingham, which is more than a hundred years old, is used by cyclists and walkers.

It was closed in July 2008 because of safety concerns.

After several delays it has opened again following a two million pound restoration project by Severn Trent Water.

Work on the bridge included the reinforcement of beams and installation of anti-pigeon measures.

The Grade Two listed structure was closed after extensive investigations above and below the waterline. They included diver surveys and x-ray analysis of structural elements.

"We're pleased that at long last we can re-open the bridge," said Fraser Pithie, Senior Operations Manager, Severn Trent Water.

"We appreciate that it has been a frustrating wait for people, particularly with the delays we encountered when it became clear the repair work required was going to be even more comprehensive and costly than we had first envisaged."

Bridge history

Wilford suspension bridge is located a stone's throw from Trent Bridge but is completely different in design to the city's other bridges and only caters for foot users and cyclists.

Nottingham architect Julian Marsh is a big fan of the structure.

He said: "It's an Edwardian bridge finished in 1908. It was built just after the embankment was formed which is the flood defence of the river. Until then all the Meadows flooded."

Mr Marsh said the crossing is unlike other suspension bridges.

"It's a really delicate structure. Two stone piers at each end and then this very light cast iron structure.

"They're plated pieces of metal that are joined together with bolts rather than wires or cables that you'd normally get on a modern suspension bridge."


Good position

The placing of the bridge is also important.

"It sits in an interesting place on the river bend," said Mr Marsh.

"You can stand on the river and see in both directions right around the corner of the river.

"This really is an important crossing. It's the only connection really between the Meadows and West Bridgford."

The name of the bridge is also confusing. To many Nottinghamians it is just known as the suspension bridge but it has been called Victoria suspension bridge and Wilford suspension bridge.

Information from – www.bbc.co.uk/local/nottingham