MP joins battle to reopen Titanic Bridge
Campaigners fighting to get the Titanic Bridge over the River Witham reopened are hoping for progress after being joined in their battle by Lincoln MP Hamish Falconer.
He has written to the owners asking for answers to residents’ request for information on the bridge’s reopening after hearing it has now been inaccessible to pedestrians and cyclists for more than a year.
Initially closed in 2024, many locals assumed the closure would be temporary. However, with no clear timeline for repairs or reopening, frustration in the community has grown.
Campaigners launched a petition urging Lincolnshire County Council and the bridge’s owners, ESR Europe, to prioritise restoration efforts. However, the former responded: “Titanic bridge is nothing to do with us. We do not own it and have no obligation for its maintenance, use or upkeep.”
ESR had not previously responded to campaigners, but they have now been told a ‘detailed response’ is being prepared.
Their petition, titled “Re-open Titanic Bridge for Pedestrians and Cyclists in Lincoln”, highlights the critical role the bridge plays in daily life, connecting neighbourhoods and supporting local businesses.
“This bridge isn't just an architectural structure; it is part of our daily lives,” wrote one of the organisers. “The absence of the Titanic Bridge has meant a significant extension of our daily commutes, especially impacting those with disabilities who rely on accessible routes.”
Campaigners say the next closest crossing requires a lengthy and less accessible detour, posing challenges for people with limited mobility and increasing journey times for many residents.
The petition also emphasises the knock-on effect the closure is having on local shops and businesses, which have seen reduced foot traffic since the bridge was closed.
Supporters argue that reopening the bridge would not only restore daily convenience and inclusivity but also promote sustainable transport options like walking and cycling - goals in line with Lincoln’s broader environmental ambitions.
“We understand infrastructure maintenance is complex,” the petition reads, “but the community’s need for accessible routes must be prioritised.”
The petition has gained traction online, as residents share stories of daily inconvenience, concern for vulnerable members of the community, and a desire to see better long-term infrastructure planning.
Picture: Richard Croft