Work to raise the parapet on the east side of Henmore Bridge is under way. The work, carried out by the County Council, uses locally sourced Derbyshire Gritstone which has been specially measured and cut to match existing stonework. Although the stone has a lighter colour when it is freshly-cut, over time the new blocks will weather in to their surroundings on Ashbourne’s historic bridge. This week, the top course of coping stones has been removed and carefully numbered so they can be put back in their original place once two new stone courses have been added. As the stones are put into place and levelled, boards are used to ensure that no debris falls into Henmore Brook.
The parapet is being raised ahead of main construction works for the Ashbourne Reborn transformation programme, which are due to start in the new year. The programme, which aims to bring back vibrancy, vitality and economic prosperity to Ashbourne town centre will see a range of improvements throughout the town centre. At Henmore Bridge, a new pavement will be installed so that pedestrians can safely use both sides of the bridge. It will particularly benefit visitors with young families and those with disabilities, who will then be able to move between Dig Street and Shrovetide Walk without needing to cross the road or divert around Henmore Brook.
Led by the County Council, the highways and public realm project will transform a series of public spaces including the Market Place, Victoria Square, Millennium Square and Shrovetide Walk. It will also include works to the road network designed to improve the pedestrian experience and reduce the dominance of traffic on Dig Street, St John Street, Church Street, Station Road and Buxton Road. A second project, led by Ashbourne Methodist Church will see the creation of a new Link Community Hub on the corner of Church Street and Station Road.
To receive email updates, sign up for the newsletter at the District Council website www.derbyshiredales.gov.uk/enewsreg (tick the box for Ashbourne Reborn), or visit the Ashbourne Reborn website www.ashbournereborn.co.uk for the latest news, FAQs and detailed information about the project.
