Better bridge for Birstall

Published: Thursday, 03 December 2009

A second new bridge over the Grand Union Canal above Leicester has just been opened, making Watermead Country Park more accessible.

This is at Birstall Lock, and designed with a more gentle approach, without steps, to allow people easier access.

The ramps up to the old bridge were very steep, making it difficult to negotiate for cyclists or parents with buggies and impossible for someone using a wheelchair.

The bridge is the second over the waterway, with a similar one being installed earlier this year at Thurmaston Lock.

The improvements are part of the £1.4 million Lottery funded Sustrans Connect2 Watermead Country Park project. In December 2007, people across the nation voted Connect2 the winner of a £50 million Big Lottery Fund People's Millions grant.

Over the next five years, Leicestershire County Council will be improving both paths and trails in and around the park and links from surrounding villages.