One of the world’s oldest cast-iron footbridges gets a refurb

An extensive conservation project to restore one of the world’s oldest cast iron bridges in Worcestershire has started.

The Austcliffe footbridge over the River Stour near Caunsall was originally constructed c.1795, making it one of the first structures in the world ever to be made of cast iron. 

Worcestershire County Council has revealed that the historic bridge is under threat due to general deterioration. The County is now undertaking extensive conservation works with its highway’s contractor, Ringway, to restore the bridge to its former glory.    

The project will clean, repair and replace various elements of the bridge: the steel arch has already been repainted by a specialist and reinstalled, the north abutment will be rebuilt with a new ramp and the railings leading to the bride parapet will also be replaced in keeping with the original character of the bridge.    

It is expected that the fully restored cast-iron bridge will be open for use during the Spring of 2022. Keep an eye out on this web page for any further updates.