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Bridge reinstalled on former railway greenway

Helen Oades A bridge, about four metres in length, is being lowered into place from a crane. It will join two sides of an old railwayHelen Oades
The original bridge at Greenfield was removed after the line closed in the 1950s

A bridge has been installed on the route of a former railway as part of a project to create a greenway for walkers and cyclists.

Volunteers hope the first section of the Alnwick to Cornhill line in Northumberland will be open to the public in early 2025.

The railway dates back to 1887 but was never profitable or well-used, and closed in 1953.

Stewart Oades, chairman of Borderline Greenway, said: "Getting the bridge in place is a small part of a very ambitious project, but it's still fantastic to see it happen."

A new bridge made of wood with a metal base sits on a narrow gap between two sections of a former railway
Ramps will be built on either side of the new bridge at Greensfield, Alnwick

The long-term aim would see the whole of the Alnwick to Cornhill line reopened as a route suitable for walkers, cyclists, horses, pushchairs and wheelchairs.

It would also connect with Route 1 of the National Cycle Network, creating a 100-mile (170km) loop through north Northumberland, encouraging cyclists to explore more of the county, rather than just staying on the coast.

The bridge at Greenfield, near Alnwick, was removed after the line closed and replacing it at a cost of more than £13,000 was an important part of getting the first section open.

John Mallon/North East Railway Association A black-and-white image of a railway line with a narrow metal bridge crossing it. John Mallon/North East Railway Association
The Alnwick to Cornhill line was never profitable and closed in 1953

Mr Oades said people were "really enthusiastic about us connecting the two sides of the old track".

"People will be able to travel as far as Rugley Bridge and then return along Rugley Road, creating a nice 5km (2.6 mile) circular route."

A former railway line has a restored path on it which is laid with stone. It crosses a flat area with fields on either side
The first section has a surface suitable for walkers, cyclists, wheelchair users and pushchairs

The project has been funded so far by public donations and grants.

The group hopes to extend the route in stages if it can get landowners to agree and raise more money.

"Seeing the whole line in use would be something long-lasting for future generations," Mr Oades said, "and a great testament to the beauty of Northumberland."

Stewart Oades, Martin Swinbank and another man stand in front of the new bridge which is wooden and about four metres long
Volunteers have worked to get the bridge installed for several years

Martin Swinbank, Green Party county councillor for Alnwick, said: "It's absolutely wonderful to see.

"We've had the most fantastic support from the local community and I know once we get the route properly open in the New Year, they'll be lots of people using it."

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