New temporary fencing is being installed on North Bridge in Halifax, to replace the existing Heras style panels. The new fencing will help keep people safe, make maintenance easier and better reflect the heritage status of the structure.
North Bridge is a key gateway into Halifax town centre. The Grade II listed structure was built in the late 19th Century, opening in 1871 to replace previous bridges across the River Hebble.
Calderdale Council has worked with Historic England to design the new fencing which has been specially made for the site.
Work will take place from Monday 8 September and the new design will allow more of the structure to be seen, whilst offering a more robust alternative to Heras fencing.
The work will take around 10 days and will involve the removal of existing fencing. Capping will also be removed from the parapets, revealing the gothic-style architecture, including turrets, carvings and gargoyles.
Disruption will be kept to a minimum, with both footpaths remaining open for the duration of the project. However, some narrowing of the footway may occur during works.
Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Transport, Cllr Sarah Courtney, said:
“North Bridge is a beautiful Grade II listed structure, just outside Halifax town centre. The bridge has many stunning heritage features, including beautiful stonework and a former drinking fountain with intricate carving work.
“We have been working with Historic England to design fencing which is more sympathetic to the bridge’s original features and a more secure alternative to the Heras style panels. The resulting bespoke fencing being installed will allow more of the bridge’s original features to be seen while also being more robust.”