Bedford
Suspension Bridge

Places > Bedford > Bridges > Suspension Bridge

The Suspension Bridge was constructed in 1888 to provide access from The Embankment to Mill Meadows, which Bedford Corporation had purchased in 1883. At first a low flat girder bridge was proposed but this would have obstructed river traffic. John James Webster whose design allowed sailing boats to pass underneath built the bridge. Webster also built Prebend Street Bridge and several seaside piers. The opening ceremony was performed by the Marquis of Tavistock who on the same day also opened Bedford Park. A large part of the cost of 500 was raised by public subscription.

In 1983 the bridge was closed for repairs with the restoration work being carried out by the Bedford firm of C.A.E.C. Howard at a cost of 32,000. The bridge was re-opened again in March 1984.

Sources:

• SIMCO, A and MCKEAGUE, P.  Bridges of Bedfordshire. 1997
• Newspaper Cuttings Collection, Local Studies Library, Bedford Central Library

Bedford Suspension Bridge, by Bedfordshire Libraries, 2009

Page last updated: 22nd January 2014