New bridge opens two years after crossing was shut

A new bridge has opened two years after the one it replaced was closed over safety concerns.

The river crossing at New Mills Yard in Norwich, originally built in 1898, was shut in April 2024 after an investigation found the steel structure had deteriorated.

The following year, a £750,000 project began to remove the old bridge and build a new crossing, which connects Westwick Street to the Riverside Walk.

Norfolk County Council said it had been designed to match the original structure and blend in with the Grade II listed former Victorian pump house next to it.

A spokesman said: "The New Mills Yard bridge is now complete and will once again provide an important link for residents, businesses and visitors in Norwich."

New Mills Yard formed part of a water mill complex for centuries, with this use dating back to at least 1430.

In the 1890s, a pumping station was built there as part of the city's sewage system.

It operated until 1972, when it became redundant due to a larger sewage facility being built in Whitlingham.

Its location is at the head of navigation along the River Wensum, the furthest point boats can travel upstream.

In centuries gone by, vessels will have sailed up the River Yare from Great Yarmouth, through the Broads before reaching the River Wensum to the east of Norwich to deliver goods in the city and collect other products for trade elsewhere.

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