New bridge linking counties set to open to traffic

Work on a new £19.6m bridge connecting Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire has been completed.

Leicestershire County Council has built the 83m (269ft) structure, spanning the River Soar at Zouch, to replace a 1930s bridge that has been deteriorating under the weight of heavy traffic.

A ceremony to mark the completion of the new crossing was held on Thursday.

The bridge, part of the A6006, opened to pedestrians and cyclists at the end of June and officials said it would open to local traffic and buses from Monday.

The council said the full route of the A6006 between the A6 in Leicestershire and the A60 in Nottinghamshire would reopen once Network Rail completes work at nearby Kirk Hill Bridge later in July.

Until then diversions will remain in place for through traffic and heavy goods vehicles, the council said.

County council leader Dan Harrison said the opening was "an important milestone" for local communities.

"It's wonderful to see the new bridge open and to provide something that will serve the area well for many years to come," he said.

"As well as improving a key route, the project has supported local jobs, businesses and young people, creating a positive legacy beyond the bridge itself.

"The A6006 is a vital link, connecting people to the airport and freeport developments, and we've worked hard to deliver a high-quality, future-ready bridge while keeping disruption to a minimum by building it alongside the existing structure.

"We know the work has not been without inconvenience, and I'd like to sincerely thank residents and businesses for their patience and support throughout."

The scheme, which began in July 2024, has involved the creation of 500 metres (1,640ft) of new road approaching the bridge.

Gavin Hulme, managing director of contractors Eric Wright Civil Engineering, said: "This has been a complex build with a number of challenges, and we'd like to thank the local community for their understanding throughout.

"It's great to see the bridge reopen and reconnect the area, and we will now move forward with the next phase of works to safely demolish the old bridge."

The old bridge is set to be fully removed by the autumn, the council said.

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