Scott's Bridge
Scott's Bridge was a concrete pedestrian bridge in Lincoln, England. It carried a footpath over Melville Street near the River Witham, connecting Waterside South with the city centre. It was part of National Cycle Route 64 and provided an accessible crossing via a ramped switchback design. The bridge was demolished in May 2025 as part of a redevelopment scheme.
History
The bridge was constructed to provide a pedestrian and cycle crossing of Melville Street, linking the city centre with the southern districts of Lincoln. Its exact construction date is unclear: while one source described it as "built in 1974", an image published by the Society for Lincolnshire History and Archaeology shows it already in place by 1971.The bridge became a familiar feature in local photography. A 2025 BBC report noted that residents recalled using it for cathedral views "as far back as the 1960s". Throughout its life it was maintained by Lincolnshire County Council.
Design
Scott's Bridge was built of reinforced concrete with a ramped switchback design that provided step-free access across the A15. Handrails were provided along all ramps and landings. The crossing also supported cycling in the city and lay on the corridor of National Cycle Route 64.Demolition
In 2025, plans were approved to redevelop the site of the adjacent vacant Lincoln Co-operative shopping centre into a six-storey hotel and residential development.Planning documents from Lincolnshire County Council noted that all existing structures within the site curtilage, including the pedestrian bridge, would be removed. The redevelopment included a new one-way service street and direct links into the Lincoln Central multi-storey car park.
Scott's Bridge was closed to the public from 5 May 2025 and demolished between 16 and 19 May. The works required temporary road closures of Broadgate and Lindum Hill and diversions for several bus services operated by Stagecoach East Midlands.
According to developers, the demolition produced approximately 8,100 tonnes of concrete and brick rubble and 350 tonnes of metals, of which more than 99% was recycled for use in local road and infrastructure projects.