New Measures Proposed for 250-Year-Old Clumber Bridge Protection

Measures have been devised to safeguard a 250-year-old bridge, which sustained damage when a vehicle was intentionally driven into it. The National Trust is requesting authorization to lay new paving on the Grade II*-listed Clumber Bridge, situated close to Worksop, and to strengthen adjacent eroding land. Within its submission to Bassetlaw planners, the trust stated that the undertaking would contribute to the River Poulter crossing’s “care and maintenance” and ensure its accessibility “for everyone, forever”. Should approval be granted, this work would follow up on the £500,000 restoration project completed approximately five years prior. A vehicle that had been burned out was discovered on the bridge in March 2018, amidst a path of destruction described by the trust as appearing to be “an act of intentional damage”. The bridge underwent reconstruction, incorporating approximately two-thirds of its original stonework, which was retrieved from the water, along with supplementary stones. Vehicle traffic was rerouted away from the bridge subsequent to the occurrence. During the current summer, the trust erected bollards, replacing substantial concrete blocks previously positioned to deter drivers. The trust indicated that the proposed levelling and repaving efforts would enhance the recently installed, less visually-obtrusive bollards. Historic England commented that Clumber Bridge is “skilfully ornamented and features elegantly detailed stonework”, and the trust expressed its aim to establish it as “a more prominent visitor area” within the broader Clumber Park. A decision from Bassetlaw District Council regarding the application is anticipated by mid-January.