Exeter Quay's new £1.1m bridge update

Cllr Phil Biakyk where the Mallison Bridge used to be
-Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)


Hopes that work will soon begin to replace a popular Exeter Quay bridge that closed six years ago have been dashed. This week activity has been taking place where the old Mallison Bridge used to be between pub Samuel Jones and Riverside Cafe.

Workmen were seen carrying out early preparatory work. However, Devon County Council (DCC) has confirmed plans have yet to be finalised, submitted and approved for the new bridge.

The council says it is still in the 'detailed design stage' and it is hoped a planning application will be submitted in winter 2024/25. If the plans are approved, construction work could begin next summer with the aim of it being completed by the autumn.

READ MORE:Popular Exeter restaurant allays closure fears over auction sign

READ MORE:Video captures moment water gushes into Exeter Reiss store

Mallison Bridge, a small wooden structure, was originally built in 1984 to give pedestrians and cyclists access across the stretch of water. It closed in 2018 after engineers identified significant rot to the main structural timber.

The former Mallison bridge by Exeter quay
The former Mallison bridge by Exeter quay

A decision was then made to remove it in 2020. Since then, an alternative route has had to be taken via a small alleyway which connects the river to Commercial Road.

Planning permission for a replacement pedestrian and cycle bridge was granted in December 2018. However, the project has been continually delayed because of a lack of cash.

Funding for it to go ahead has now been secured from Active Travel England with local contributions from ECC and the Exeter Canal and Quay Trust. It will cost £1.1m to build the new bridge.

DCC says it does not currently have any drawings or plans to share with the public.