Draft:Scott's Bridge

Scott's Bridge is a concrete arch bridge in central Lincolnshire over Melville Street (A15), Lincoln. The bridge connects the Waterside South footpath over the A15, and runs parallel to the River Witham.

Design

The bridge was constructed to provide pedestrian access across the A15 at Melville Street. Build from concrete, the bridge features a switchback ramp design, enabling accessible ramped crossings while minimising the overall footprint. The bridge also features handrails across all ramps and landings. The bridge is maintained by the local council.

Usage

The bridge makes up part of Lincolns pedestrian access, linking the city centre with southern districts and Monks Road area. It is regularly used by pedestrians, cyclists, and commuters, offering a safe and accessible crossing over a major traffic route.

The bridge is also a popular spot for photographers, offering a unique view of Lincoln Cathedral and the surrounding cityscape.

Demolition

The bridge is set to be demolished in May 2025 as part of a wider scheme to build a new hotel and residential development. The new six-story hotel will replace the currently vacant Co-Op shopping centre on the corner of Waterside South. During the demolition process, all concrete and rubble will be repurposed within Lincolnshire providing materials for new roads and site infrastructure.

In a document provided by Lincolnshire County Council, the plans for the site indicate the removal of the pedestrian footbridge across Melville Street as part of the redevelopment process. The proposal outlines the demolition of all existing structures within the site curtilage, including the footbridge, to make way for the hotel development.

The site, which is currently a vacant car park and service yard, is situated in a highly sustainable location within the city center, offering proximity to Lincoln's Transport Hub. The proposed project will include the creation of a new private one-way service street along the western side of the hotel, along with a dedicated access for hotel guests into the Lincoln Central multi-storey car park. However, this development requires the removal of the footbridge as part of the reorganization of the surrounding infrastructure.

Public Reception

Support

The decision to demolish the bridge sparked mixed reactions from local residents. Some individuals expressed support for the demolition, describing the bridge as "ugly" and likening it to "stark governmental buildings", with another quoted as saying "It's just not very nice to see".

Opposition

However, others have voiced concerns about losing a vital pedestrian crossing. One employee of a business in the areas stated "You've got the crossing down the bottom and another at the top of the road, but the practicality of it makes this a very important bridge".. Similarly, another local resident said, "I don't think it would be the end of the world if it was taken down, but it's just a bit more convenient that there is another way of crossing the road in between the two crossings, and it doesn't stop traffic either"

Some local residents opposing the demolition, noting that it is a "local landmark". Others quoted as saying "...you get such a good view at the top. It's hard work, but you're rewarded up there.". More expressed concern about the impact on local businesses in the area: "I feel the loss will be closing businesses on this road off a bit. We're lucky we have a crossing nearby, but there's a lot of residents who use it to get to the High Street."

Future Plans and Mitigation

The Lincolnshire County Council has emphasised the importance of mitigating the removal of the footbridge, particularly as it relates to the strategic needs outlined in the Lincoln Transport Strategy. In a report regarding the planning application, it was noted that the footbridge provides a necessary east-west connection across Melville Street, which is an integral part of the National Cycle Route 64. The connection is also considered crucial for future regeneration efforts in the areas to the east of Broadgate.

To address the displacement of pedestrians and cyclists, Lincolnshire County Council has requested that a £500,000 contribution be made through Section 106 funds to support improvements to walking and cycling infrastructure in the area. This contribution is designed to mitigate the loss of the footbridge by enhancing alternative crossings, such as the signalised pedestrian crossings at St. Swithins Square and Newton Street. Furthermore, the long-term goal is to improve the east-west connection as part of the emerging Broadgate Corridor scheme, which aligns with the city’s broader regeneration plans.

Conclusion

While the demolition of Scott's Bridge is part of a larger plan for the redevelopment of the site into a new hotel and residential area, it raises important questions about the loss of a vital pedestrian route. The removal of the bridge, coupled with the efforts to replace it with upgraded walking and cycling infrastructure, highlights the balancing act between urban development and the need for accessible public spaces. Whether or not the loss of Scott's Bridge will be seen as a positive or negative change will ultimately depend on the success of these proposed improvements and their ability to meet the needs of both residents and visitors alike.