Help save Brunel's Swivel Bridge
Brunel's swivel bridge to be restored.
Imagine this 75 tonnes iron and timber Bridge swinging slowly towards you, sliding silently over the Harbour, just as intended by Isambard Kingdom Brunel nearly two centuries ago !
This iconic crossing for pedestrians, cyclists and wheel-chair users may soon be restored, thanks to a very generous philanthropic pledge of funding to the Brunel Swivel Bridge Group. The charity is dedicated to returning the structure to use by 2029, the 180th anniversary of the opening of the Bridge in 1849 subject to further funding.
The Bridge will be the much-needed focus and 'wow factor' for the Western Harbour, and will become a celebrated Brunel icon alongside the others in the City.
This is our once-in-a-lifetime chance to save the Swivel Bridge for future generations.
Urgent Action Needed
For a project of this complexity, time is short. The Swivel Bridge Group has a license from Bristol City Council to carry out development and restoration work. It is progressing engineering design and preliminary repairs, prior to the main works scheduled to start in 2027.
The charity has been working to save the Bridge since 2013. It has wide support from the public, City councillors, local amenity and special-interest groups, and Historic England.
Can You Help?
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Donate. The government will add 20% through Gift Aid at no extra cost to you
- Publicise the project in your group and community
- Post and share on social media
- Help raise funds
- Join our monthly volunteer workdays
- Watch our appeal video
Animation
This animation animation was created by Paco Lluna and his colleagues at Balfour Beatty to show in 3D how the bridge operated.
News
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