Grosvenor Bridge, Chester

Grosvenor Bridge was designed by architect Thomas Harrison and opened in 1832. The Grade 1 listed structure was the largest single span stone arch bridge in the world when it opened. It carries the A483 over the River Dee in Chester.

Background

Unfortunately, the Bridge has been hit by vehicles twice in a six-month period - in March 2022 and then again in October 2022. In both cases, vehicles heading out of Chester failed to negotiate the left-hand bend onto the bridge and collided head on with the parapet. These impacts caused masonry blocks to fall on the footpath and cycleway below. Fortunately there were no injuries.

Latest update

We are looking at ways to both strengthen the bridge to prevent falling masonry and reduce the likelihood of an impact in the first place, though options are limited by the road layout and the Grade 1 Listed status of the bridge.

Developing a design for the repair works on a bridge with such status is an incredibly complex task. Grade I Listing applies to structures of exceptional interest, only 2.5% of listed buildings are Grade I and it is unusual for a bridge. The design will need to be sympathetic to the historic structure while at the same time minimising the risks to the public in the event of future collisions. Our consultants and conservation specialists are working closely with Historic England, plus our Conservation and Planning Teams, to develop a design that will meet Listed Building Consent requirements.

The rebuilding of the bridge parapet will use new blocks of masonry, as the previous blocks were smashed during the last vehicle collision.

Both reconstruction and strengthening works will take place at the same time, after all the necessary approvals are in place. When a date is known for this, it will appear on this page.

Reconstruction costs will be recovered from the drivers' insurance policies but strengthening costs will be borne by the Council.