Damaged bridge in Chesterfield that was struck by falling tree nearly two years ago is replaced - as council removes temporary traffic lights
A bridge that was damaged by a falling tree nearly two years ago in Chesterfield has been replaced.
A replacement for a bridge in Chesterfield that was left damaged nearly two years ago is now open to pedestrians.
The pedestrian bridge at Somersall Lane in Chesterfield was damaged beyond repair after being hit by a collapsing tree in January 2025 – leading to temporary traffic lights being installed.
The bridge had been out of action since it was damaged and the situation has been further complicated by the presence of utility infrastructure beneath the bridge, which needed to be diverted before a replacement could be installed.
Residents in the area faced daily disruption, with temporary traffic lights that regularly malfunctioned. Pedestrians were also forced to share the road with vehicles along a key walking route to Brookfield School.
Nearly two years on, Derbyhsire County Council (DCC) confirmed that the new footbridge was opened on Wednesday, November 4. The temporary traffic lights were removed yesterday (Thursday, November 6) after the council finalised their work to reinstate the verge. The bridge was lifted into place on October 29, during half term, to minimise disruption.
A DCC spokesperson said: “Work to install the damaged bridge is now complete with the new replacement bridge lifted into place and open.
“We’re pleased we’ve been able to restore this important walking route and would like to thank everyone for their patience.”
The road was closed for two days as DCC also took the opportunity to resurface the road while they were installing the bridge.