Waterside Bridge

Framework: SCAPE Civil Engineering and SCAPE Consultancy

Client: Nottingham City Council

Expected opening date: Autumn 2026

"This is going to be massively beneficial to the economic growth, both on the south side and the north side of the city as well. We know that improving connectivity and having great transport attract businesses to Nottingham, and it also supports jobs and skills for Nottingham people."

Councillor Linda Woodings

Executive Member for Regional Development, Growth and Transport, Nottingham Council

A new walking and cycling bridge is being built over the River Trent, marking Nottingham's first new river crossing in over 65 years. This is a step forward in creating a greener, more connected route for the local communities.

The project is being delivered for Nottingham City Council, with Balfour Beatty through the SCAPE Civil Engineering framework. Pick Everard is providing project management and health and safety support through Perfect Circle using the SCAPE Consultancy Framework.

This new bridge, designed specifically for pedestrians and cyclists, will enhance east-west connections between the Trent Basin area and Lady Bay. It aims to promote sustainable travel options and improve access to nearby parks, sports grounds, and community amenities.

The transformation project is part of the Council's Transforming Cities Fund program, which supports long-term plans to improve connectivity and encourage more sustainable travel across Nottingham.

The bridge is expected to open in late spring 2026.

Launched in 2020 after securing £160 million in government funding, the program supports projects aimed at promoting sustainable travel and enhancing inter-city connectivity.

Nottingham City Council, along with neighbouring local authorities, examined the strategic cycling and walking routes, highlighting the need for safer travel options.

The new bridge will serve as a landmark for the city. Once completed, this traffic-free bridge will connect the expanding Trent Basin area, home to new housing and schools, with the south side of the river. This area features sports and leisure destinations, including Nottingham Forest’s City Ground, Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, Holme Pierrepont, and Nottingham Rugby Club.

By linking communities, green spaces, and riverside paths, the bridge will encourage more sustainable travel throughout the city and help Nottingham achieve its goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2028.

With the new structure in place, the project teams are progressing to complete the following works: access ramps, steps, and walkways; a smaller crossing over the Trent Basin inlet; and landscaping, planting, and new public realm spaces. The bridge is expected to open in late spring 2026.