Iconic Weavers' Triangle bridge opens

The iconic new Sandygate canal footbridge, a major feat of engineering at the heart of the Weavers’ Triangle ‘On The Banks’ development opens to the public this Saturday 19th December.

The sleek, £300,000, 50m steel footbridge, clad in glass and corten, designed by Roger Westbrook spans Leeds & Liverpool Canal at the heart of Burnley between the new University Technical College and the town centre.

The footbridge incorporates LED lighting into the handrails and will create a blade of light, linking the mix of historic and modern features within the unique canalside mixed use development.

Tim Webber, Barnfield’s managing director said: “This is another major milestone in a highly technical and difficult project that has delivered some fantastic outcomes in a difficult market.

“The designs for the bridge were thought over for a long time but we are now confident that this is a fantastic addition to the ever growing On The Banks development. We worked closely with the Canals and Rivers Trust to ensure the design aligned with canal users and barges passing under the new bridge.”

Burnley Council’s chief executive, Steve Rumbelow said: “It is wonderful to see the new bridge in position which signifies the second phase of works transforming the Weavers’ Triangle ‘On the Banks’ are well underway.

Burnley Council leader, Mark Townsend said: “On The Banks is one of the largest heritage led regeneration schemes in the country and I’m so proud to see the transformations taking place, which will help put Burnley on the map as a place where enterprise and innovation are thriving.” “High quality public realm works are proven to have wider economic value, including raised demand for land and buildings and increased property values, as well as creating places where people want to visit and enjoy their leisure time.”