Council calls for community help to redesign pride bridge
Leith locals are to be included in design plans after campaigning for the landmark’s restoration.
The Leith community's been invited to help redesign the Lindsay Road Bridge, known as ‘Pride Bridge’ after its brightly painted rainbow colours.
In 2021 the bridge was closed down after being deemed unstable and unsafe, sparking a community ‘Save Pride Bridge’ campaign - that prompted council officers to make an application for Transport Scotland funding through Sustrans to replace the bridge deck.
£233,700 has been awarded and the council have appointed designer Mott McDonald to work with Leith locals to create a new vision for the bridge.
“The strength of feeling amongst local people for this bridge, and its celebration of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender pride, has been inspiring”
Councillor and Transport and Environment Convener Scott Arthur said: “The Pride Bridge has been such a well-loved landmark and thoroughfare for the local community, it’s only right that we involve them to develop a replacement.”
“I was delighted last year when we secured funding, which would once again provide a safe and convenient walking and cycling route between North Fort Street and Newhaven area.”
“The strength of feeling amongst local people for this bridge, and its celebration of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender pride, has been inspiring.”
The entire process is expected to take a year and officers intend to cover the cost of construction by applying to Sustrans for further funding.
The rebuilding of the bridge is a part of the wider Leith Connections project improving community spaces with better walking, wheeling, and cycling connections.
Róisin Thérèse, Save Pride Bridge campaign leader, ensured: “The Save the Pride Bridge campaign has worked closely with the Council and design team to communicate the wishes of the local residents in terms of preserving an accessible route, a community space, and an important LGBTQ+ landmark.”
“We are excited to participate in the public consultations to reimagine this space and secure it as a valuable community asset for years to come.”
Information sessions and an online consultation will be held to ensure the needs of the community are met and feedback is gathered on any proposed designs. The online consultation ends on the 4th of April.