Access road and bridge

Chelmer Waterside access road and bridge (This video has no sound)

The new access road and bridge will link Wharf Road and Parkway, alongside the Essex Record Office. It will replace the existing Bailey Bridge, which spans the River Chelmer.

It will create access to the new housing sites we identified in our Local Plan. It will also provide additional capacity in the road network, which is currently under pressure at the junction of Springfield Road and Navigation Road.

The new single span bridge will carry pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles accessing the new neighbourhood. Its purpose is for access only, not as a through route. We are proposing a road width restriction and a 20mph speed limit, to ensure the road is only used for access.

A bowstring bridge design is our preferred option. This design will reflect the former industrial heritage of Chelmer Waterside, whilst creating a local landmark and maintaining enjoyment of, and views along, the river.

Its design will ensure there is enough room for boats using the waterways, which is one of our key objectives. It will also connect into the city's cycle network.

We granted planning permission for the new bridge and access road in June 2021. You can view the planning application (reference 21/00024/FUL).

The bridge went through a detailed design stage, before construction started in October 2023.

In October 2023, works started on the new access road and bridge for Chelmer Waterside.

We granted planning permission for the bridge in June 2021 (under planning application 21/00024/FUL).

We expect the works to be finished in Spring 2025.

You can also:

view a map of the footpath and cycle diversions
sign up to our newsletter to receive regular updates as the works progress

As part of the planning agreement for the Peninsula site, Taylor Wimpey has to upgrade the existing road junction. The local highway authority has agreed these works, which started in late 2023.