A project to establish options to improve access at Bennerley Viaduct will be funded by Erewash Borough Council.

The Bennerley Viaduct Study is one of a number of projects being rolled out by the council over the next two years following a successful bid to the Government’s £2.8m Shared Prosperity Fund.

Scheduled for 2024, the funding will support the relevant feasibility studies and the resulting project for the Erewash landmark - a tourist attraction in Ilkeston.

The viaduct was opened again to the public after 54 years thanks to the Friends of Bennerley Viaduct, a group of volunteers dedicated to restoring and conserving the viaduct. The viaduct is a former railway bridge built nearly 150 years ago. Its deck is 60 feet above the ground and is accessed by a sloping path at one end and steps at the other.

Councillor Carol Hart, Leader of Erewash Borough Council, says:

“Since the viaduct was reopened to the public it is clear to see just how popular it has become, with visitors coming from far and wide, including from other countries. This funding will allow a study to take place to see how the access to the top of the viaduct can be improved so that people of all ages and abilities can enjoy it.”

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is a central pillar of the UK government’s Levelling Up agenda and provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills.