A MAJOR step forward has been taken in the regeneration of Lydney’s historic harbour with local company Mabey Bridge set to begin work to bring the redundant swing bridge back into action.

The restoration works allow sea-going yachts and motor boats to pass through the one mile stretch of canal that runs inland from the River Severn to Lydney. The bridge has been fixed in place for many years preventing boats from sailing further up into the basin and mooring.  The operating mechanism will be fixed to allow the bridge to swing open and closed under the harbour master’s supervision.  Worn timber cladding on the surface will also be replaced to improve pedestrian access.

Lydney Town Council and the Environment Agency, in partnership with the Forest of Dean District Council (FDDC), secured £10,000 from the government to establish a new Coastal Community Team to serve the Lydney Docks and Harbour area.  A £50,000 Coastal Revival Fund grant supports further access improvements.

Michael Treacy, chief executive of Mabey Bridge said: “The works will see the whole bridge crane-lifted out of position and moved into the factory for the refurbishment to be undertaken.  We estimate that the repair process will take 10-12 weeks, which should see the restored bridge returned into position over the canal in early August.” 

Forest Council leader Cllr Patrick Molyneaux (Con. Hewelsfield and Woolaston) added:  “This is Lydney Coastal Community Team’s first project and I’m delighted to hear that a local business has secured the contract to bring the harbour’s swing bridge back into use.”