THE BAILEY Bridge that was removed from Frome in 2010, has found a new home in Melksham.
The bridge, built in 1986, was removed from Frome and was replaced by the Button Bridge in 2010.
The Bailey Bridge was closed to traffic in 2006 due to safety concerns.
Mendip District Council gifted the Bailey to the Wilts and Berks Canal Trust.
The trust plan to re-erect it in Melksham as part of a project that will bring the canal through the centre of the Wiltshire town. It has been bought up-to-date with new parts including timber decking that is in keeping with the bridge’s original look.
In January 2010, Frome Civic Society called for a replacement bridge that would allow cars to access Waterloo from the Market Yard car park, much like the Bailey bridge. However, the pedestrian-only Button Bridge was constructed.
Plans were also put forward to have the Bailey listed but this was turned down by the Secretary of State of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.
