‘Local landmark’ to be demolished as part of hotel project in Lincoln

A prominent footbridge will be demolished next month as part of a major hotel project.

The bridge over Melville Street, which is known for the view it offers of Lincoln Cathedral, will close to the public on Monday, May 5.

Road closures on Broadgate and Melville Street will be in place from 7pm on Friday, May 16 to 6am on Monday, May 19.

The City Square location next to the bridge was recently cleared to make way for Lincolnshire Co-op’s landmark hotel development.

The company says it is in advanced negotiations with an international hotel developer and operator, and there has also been interest from several developers in residential properties on the rest of the site.

The footbridge is considered to be a ‘barrier to development, both logistically and in terms of visual impact’.

Kevin Kendall, head of property at Lincolnshire Co-op, said: “We’re pleased with how the project continues to progress, and look forward to bringing new services to the local area, which will support tourism in Lincoln and create more housing.

“Thank you to Eddisons and UDCS Demolition, who have done a fantastic job at managing the demolition and minimising disruption. I’m confident that this will continue as we embark onto this next phase.”

The bridge is a popular location for photographers for the shot it offers of Lincoln Cathedral.

Kay Fleming, who runs the nearby Fabric Corner, previously told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “It’s a shame it has to go. It’s a local landmark.

“We call it the scenic route because you get such a good view at the top. It’s hard work, but you’re rewarded up there.”

A local resident named Chris said: “It’s a shame it’s going, but you can kind of see why – it’s looking its age. I like to keep moving, so I prefer the climb of the bridge to going over the crossings.”