Waterside Bridge Nottingham

WATERSIDE BRIDGE - NOTTINGHAM

The pedestrian and cyclists’ Waterside Bridge connecting Nottingham City to Lady Bay was officially opened on Tuesday 2nd June 2026. A newly widened and surfaced riverside path on the south side was also re-opened, although the pedestrian and cyclists’ path on the north bank remains under construction. The new Poulton Drive section is advertised as “coming soon”.  

This 87m bridge spanning the River Trent is the first new river crossing built in the city since 1958, when the Clifton Bridge was erected. The government-funded project faced lengthy delays and increased costs and after an original budget of £9m it eventually spiralled to £18m. In conjunction with the Basin Bridge linking the Waterside Bridge landing with Trent Basin, these bridges are part of plans to provide a continuous east-west path along the north side of the Trent.

The Grand Ribbon cutting ceremony was originally advertised as taking place at 12 noon but at short notice and with little advertisement, was brought forward to 10 am. This unfortunately meant that many missed the first opportunity to use the bridge, including Ian Prince, Chair Cycling UK East Midlands Region who had travelled specifically to see the event. Never the less Ian reported that there had been a good attendance. 

The ribbon was ceremoniously cut by Nottingham City Council leader Neghat Khan. Khan said it was a significant moment for the city, and added: "We are not simply opening a bridge, we are opening new connections, new opportunities and a new chapter for Nottingham”.

"For the first time, communities on both sides of the River Trent are directly linked by a safe, accessible and attractive walking and cycling route”.

"That means easier journeys to work, safer journeys to school, better access to parks, green spaces, sporting venues, and local services”.

"It will help unlock the regeneration of the Waterside area, support new homes, new facilities, new opportunities for our city."

She added the new bridge was the "flagship achievement" of the Transforming Cities programme.

Susan Young, of Campaign Group Pedals, said: "We don't have easy crossings of the river in many areas for people”.

"Traffic on the nearby bridges is horrendous and they are not nice for walking either”.

"We've got lovely cycle routes around here, so it's essential we get plenty of crossings suitable for people. It's going to be quick and easy."

Sarah Ansari, of the charity Walk Wheel Cycle Trust - who was at the opening, said it was a "great achievement".

"Many years of work has gone into it, connecting Holme Pierrepont with the city giving more opportunities for people to cycle and walk safely, and access the city”.

Transport Nottingham also announced a community ‘Fun Day’ was due to be held on both sides of the bridge with free activities, food stalls and community performances on Sunday 14 June from 10am – 4 pm. 

Photos Courtesy Ian Prince.