Crook O’ Lune bridge officially reopened
The Crook O' Lune is coming into bloom for the first time since Lancashire County Council invested £1m in improvements to the bridge and a new picnic area.
An official opening was held on Monday 17 March to mark the completion of a major restoration of the east cycleway bridge and a significant revamp of the surrounding area.
The Grade II listed bridge was reopened at the end of last year after being given a new lease of life thanks to a full restoration which saw the timber decking replaced, ironwork repainted, and masonry re-pointed.
More improvements were made in January this year with the creation of a landscaped picnic area alongside the river beneath the bridge.
The picnic area fe! atures newly planted native trees such as oak and wild cherry, along with hawthorn and holly hedgerows and wildflowers. New benches in the style of railway sleepers have also been installed, as well as wooden sculptures of the otters which inhabit the Lune.
The bridge, near the Crook O' Lune picnic site, links Caton with the River Lune Millennium Park. Its prominent position over the River Lune provides picturesque view of the Lune valley and has been captured by artists such as Turner and Gilbert and described by the poet Thomas Gray. The area attracts 250,000 visitors a year, with the reopening of the bridge being welcomed by the many cyclists, walkers and horse riders who use the route.
County Councillor John Fillis, cabinet member for highways and transport, said: "The Crook O' Lune is one of the most attractive parts of Lancashire and this major investment supports tourism, ensuring it continues to be a magnet for local people and visitors from fu! rther afield.
"The sympathetic work to the Grade II listed bridge has restored its character and preserved it for future generations.
"The new picnic area is of very high quality and in a fantastic spot, adding to the many reasons to enjoy a visit to the Crook O' Lune."
For further information please contact: Mike Warren on 01772 533537