What is happening at North Bridge: Work to start on new fencing at historic Halifax bridge to prevent further tragedies
Work to install new fencing aimed at keeping people safe at Halifax’s North Bridge starts next week.
The Courier reported earlier this year how Calderdale Council was applying for planning permission for new temporary fencing on the bridge which would be more difficult to remove than what is there currently
The council now says work will start on Monday to install the new fencing which will “help keep people safe, make maintenance easier and better reflect the heritage status of the structure”.
The council has been urged many times by coroners to take action to try to stop people from dying by suicide at the bridge on the outskirts of Halifax town centre.
In 2018, work to install temporary fencing panels was completed along both parapets of North Bridge and they have remained in place ever since.
According to a design and heritage statement submitted with the planning application for the latest fencing, the current fencing panels were secured using cable or metal ties – ensuring installation could be carried out without drilling into the structural fabric of the historic parapets.
The fencing was selected due to its immediate availability and ease of installation, while avoiding permanent alterations to the bridge.
But there have been concerns about the number of site visits needed for upkeep and that the current panels are not difficult enough to remove.
The fencing being installed next week includes a top section deliberately angled inwards over the footway – a strategic design feature intended to actively discourage climbing and enhance overall security.
It aims to provide a “strong, tamper-resistant deterrent to unauthorised access” and is “bespoke designed for straightforward yet secure installation, ensuring long-term durability and reliability”.
Calderdale Council says it has worked with Historic England to design the new fencing, which has been specially made for the site.
Work will take place from Monday and is expected to take around 10 days.
Capping will also be removed from the parapets, revealing the gothic-style architecture including turrets, carvings and gargoyles.
The council says the new design will allow more of the Grade II listed bridge to be seen, whilst offering a more robust alternative.
Samaritans provides free, 24/7 confidential emotional support to anyone who is struggling to cope or at risk of suicide by calling 116 123.