The contentious £50 million Spalding bridge, which currently concludes in a field, has become a hot topic in local discussions. Despite its incomplete state, council representatives maintain that it isn’t a misuse of taxpayers’ money. The bridge, constructed in 2024, was initially envisioned as part of a relief route intended to reduce congestion on the western side of Spalding. However, the rest of the proposed project is yet to receive government funds for completion.
Spalding plays a significant role in the UK’s food and flower industry and has experienced increasing demands from local enterprises for enhanced infrastructure to connect with the A1 road. Local councillor Rob Gibson, who is now the deputy leader of the council, has expressed concern over the project’s incomplete status. He suggests that a complete reassessment of all road projects under the newly established Reform UK-led county council is necessary.
Meanwhile, the previous Conservative administration, who launched the project, remains optimistic about obtaining the required funds to complete the bridge as initially planned. Newly elected mayor Andrea Jenkyns has pledged to lobby for the national recognition and financial support needed for Lincolnshire’s infrastructure. She underscores the strategic significance of these routes for the region’s agricultural sector.
This article is based on original reporting by the BBC.
