 "Iron Giant" stretches between Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire A new visitor centre could be built at a Victorian viaduct if planning permission is granted. Bennerley Viaduct, which spans the border between Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire, was reopened in 2022 after being closed for 54 years. Plans to build a visitor centre and cafe have now been submitted to . said the move would be 'good for the viaduct and the community' The Grade II* listed viaduct opened as a railway bridge in 1877 near Ilkeston but was closed in 1968 as part of the Beeching railway cuts . A £1.4m project to reopen it as a footbridge for cyclists and pedestrians was completed last year. Image source, Image caption, The visitor centre's design will be inspired by the site's historic links to the railways Kate Crossley, heritage and engagement lead at the charity, said: "The viaduct is an incredibly special heritage site which deserves national and international attention. "We have ramp access on one side but we've always felt that we needed one on the other side so our vision of connecting the two counties for cyclists and walkers could be realised. "At the same time we'll be able to build a small car park and visitor centre so people can drive right up to the viaduct. "We're proud of the project and believe this development will do so much for the viaduct and the local community." Image source, Railway Heritage Trust Image caption, The former railway bridge was made accessible for cyclists and pedestrians last year It is the longest wrought iron viaduct in the country and crosses the River Erewash connecting Ilkeston, Derbyshire with Awnsworth, Nottinghamshire. As part of the proposals, a cycle and pedestrian embankment would be constructed to connect the eastern end of the viaduct. A visitor centre, including an education and exhibition space, cafe, outdoor seating and a bike store, would also be built, while there would be a 2){kind=link}
A new visitor centre could be built at a Victorian viaduct if planning permission is granted.
Bennerley Viaduct, which spans the border between Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire, was reopened in 2022 after being closed for 54 years.
Plans to build a visitor centre and cafe have now been submitted to Broxtowe Borough Council.
The Friends of Bennerley Viaduct said the move would be ‘good for the viaduct and the community’
The Grade II* listed viaduct opened as a railway bridge in 1877 near Ilkeston but was closed in 1968 as part of the Beeching railway cuts.