Meadow Lane Footbridge FAQs

Published: 18 April 2019

Following the publishing of the footbridge closure announcement, we’ve put together some FAQs on the latest update on the A52 Wyvern Transport Improvement Scheme.

Read our full statement online.

1. Why do you need to close the footbridge on 29th April, when the demolition isn’t taking place until 17th May?

We need to close the footbridge prior to the demolition in order to carry out essential preparation work.

2. What will be the impact on local residents and businesses during the demolition?

Due to the limited time the A52 can be closed, work will be carried out around the clock. During this time, there will be noise as a result of the work.  Unfortunately, this is completely unavoidable, however where possible we are looking at ways to reduce this.

An added factor is that the A52 will be completely closed, meaning no background noise from traffic, which would normally assist in masking noise.

All local residents and businesses affected will be receiving a letter regarding noise associated with the works.

3. Why is the work being carried out at night?
To create a safe working environment, we need to close the A52 in both directions from Friday night to early Monday morning.  Due to the A52 needing to be closed whilst the demolition takes place, we have a limited amount of time to do the work.  We need to carry out as much work as we can during this time and this means we will be working throughout the night and day.

4. How do I cross the A52 from Chaddesden to The Wyvern and Pride Park and vice versa?
Pedestrians travelling from Chaddesden to the Wyvern, Pride Park and Stanier Business Park on foot will be diverted to the Highfield Lane footbridge to cross the A52.

Pedestrians will then be diverted along Chequers Road and Wyvernside before either turning right into Derwent Parade to travel to Pride Park, or turning left into Wyvern Way.

A pedestrian crossing will be provided outside Pizza Hut, to aid in crossing to the Wyvern and Stanier Way Business Park.  The pedestrian diversion route will be signed.

5. How will the works affect Derby County FC match days?
Parking capacity has not been affected, and we will be working closely with the football club to assess any impact the closed footbridge may have.

Football supporters travelling to the stadium from Chaddesden will be able to use the Highfield Lane footbridge to cross the A52.

Due to the walk being longer, we do suggest that supporters leave more time for their journey, or consider alternative parking arrangements or transport to Pride Park.

6. How long will the bridge be out of action?
The new footbridge is scheduled to be open by Spring 2020.

7. How will the new footbridge be an improvement on the current one?
The new bridge will be modernised, and address a number of issues identified with the current bridge, including accessibility, lighting and slip hazards.

Ramped approaches, and resin anti-slip surfaces are  among the new features, and the bridge will also incorporate handrail and decorative arch lighting, which has been specially designed to improve safety for bridge users while having minimal impact on properties nearby.

The existing footbridge only has steps, however the new bridge will be fully compliant with the Equality Act 2010, with ramps allowing wheelchair and mobility scooter users and pedestrians with prams and pushchairs to use it.

The width will be increased to four metres, which will give pedestrians and cyclists an additional two metres of space.

The new bridge will span Wyvern Way, to allow access into the Wyvern or Pride Park, without the need to cross Wyvern Way as is currently the case.

Transport