Free Bridge
In the early 1900’s the local Mayor, Councillor Maddox, raised funds to build a toll-free bridge over the river Severn as a rival to the Iron Bridge, which was then 130 years old. Opened in 1909, it was a very early example of a reinforced concrete bridge and was eventually awarded Grade II Listed Structure status in recognition of this fact. Load testing of the bridge was carried out by driving a 14-ton steam-powered road-roller over it.
Unfortunately, decay of the concrete and steel led to it being demolished in 1993. During the demolition process it was found that the piles for the bridge were only 3 metres deep and could just be pulled out of the river bed with a crane. The replacement bridge was opened in 1994 and is of a memorable (some would say controversial) design. During the opening ceremony a 14-ton steam-powered road-roller was driven across in recognition of the 1909 load test.
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© John Hallett 2008-2010
