Bridge in Musselburgh opens for cyclists
A road crossing over the River Esk in Musselburgh known locally as the ‘Electric Bridge’ has been acquired by East Lothian Council and opened for use - initially by cyclists only.
Environment spokesperson, Cllr Norman Hampshire, said: “Following successful negotiations with ScottishPower, the former owner of the bridge, East Lothian Council undertook a structural survey and carried out some repairs to the bridge. As part of the Spaces for People programme we are delighted to have been able to procure the bridge and open it up for active travel.”
“We know that during this pandemic people have been seeking more opportunities for active travel in our local communities including an increase in cycling. Local residents, who are keen to try out cycling but don’t currently have a bike can now hire one from the two Just Eat Cycle Hire sites recently installed in the town. There are further exciting proposals around sustainable travel planned for Musselburgh including a trial transport ‘multi-hub’ and a wide public consultation considering future options including new walking and cycling routes.”
The bridge was built in the 1960s to provide access for construction traffic involved in the building of Cockenzie Power Station and consequently known as ‘the Electric Bridge’. In recent years it has been closed for all access and only opening in response to public events in Musselburgh including race days at Musselburgh Racecourse and Edinburgh Marathon. Whilst the bridge is now open - for cyclists only - the Council will consider requests from groups managing public events regarding potential alternative uses of the bridge including vehicle traffic.
Signage has been put in place to promote the Electric Bridge as a main access route for cyclists with the neighbouring footbridge for pedestrians.