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Union bridge swings again!

The Fontenoy swing-bridge in Roubaix had its deck refitted this Monday 14 January 2008, marking a new stage in the canal’s restoration. 

The Fontenoy footbridge is in the heart of the Union regeneration zone, close to the former bridge-keeper’s house, which has also been restored and fitted out as a control centre. The only swing-bridge on the entire canal, the Fontenoy structure is a unique feature of the canal’s heritage and the urban landscape. The Blue Links project provided from the outset for reconstruction of the bridge to its original design.

Before the new timber deck could be placed, it was necessary to adapt the abutments and to alter the central axis. It now remains only to place the railings and make a few repairs to the civil engineering before the bridge can turn again.

In all, there are no less than 42 bridges on the canal, counting both vehicle and pedestrian bridges. More than a third of these have been, are being or will soon be rehabilitated, partially or completely, under the Blue Links projects.

This week’s news features the fixed and movable bridges renovated under Blue Links.