The instantly recognisable Lewisburn bridge, an integral part of the 26-mile route encircling Kielder Water for 15 years, has been restored to its former glory with replacement timbers following the completion of the project managed and designed by Waterman Aspen and delivered by IBEX Technical Access.

 

Now reopen for the public to enjoy, these works ensure the bridge's continued use for the new and returning visitors to England’s largest forest looking to get back to nature and explore Kielder on foot, by bike and more.

 

The newly renovated bridge played a crucial role in the recent Kielder marathon, with over 3,000 runners crossing it as part of the annual event.

 

Malcolm Catermole, Principal Engineer for Bridges & Structures at Forestry England said: "This bridge was one of the first projects I helped to design when I joined the Forestry Commission in 2008 and it was good to see it built in 2009.

 

“It was great to be able to allow its use as a recent film set, where parts of it were damaged beyond repair, knowing that, with the support of our contractors, Ibex Technical Access, we would manage to pull it back to pristine condition again in time for this year's Kielder marathon.

 

“It looks fantastic, provides a vital link along the Lakeside Way and I know that it's fit for use for another 15 years."

 

The successful completion of this project is just one example of Forestry England and partners’ commitment to Kielder Forest as a must-visit destination for both outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, as well as a vital source of British-grown sustainable timber.

 

Encompassing the entirety of Kielder Water, the Lakeside Way can be explored as a continuous 26-mile route or in shorter sections on foot, by bike or on horsebox. Parking is available for the route at various points within the forest, including Kielder Castle, Hawkhope, Tower Knowe and others. Further information is available at forestryengland.uk/kielder-forest.