Cantlop Bridge
Sightseeing attraction | Shrewsbury | England | United Kingdom
The Cantlop Bridge is a historic single-arched cast iron road bridge spanning the Cound Brook near Shrewsbury, England. It was built in 1818 and is considered a remarkable example of engineering from the early 19th century. The bridge is attributed to Thomas Telford, one of the most significant civil engineers of the time, who served as County Surveyor of Shropshire.
Construction and Design
The Cantlop Bridge consists of a single segmental arch span of approximately 9.5 meters. Its structure is composed of four cast iron lattice girders connected by five cross braces. The abutments of the bridge are made of red and grey sandstone, with chamfered ashlar stones and profiled cornices. Originally, the bridge bore a cast iron plate inscribed with "Thomas Telford Esqr - Engineer - 1818", which has been missing since at least 1985.
Historical Significance
The bridge was constructed as part of the expansion of the road network in Shropshire to improve communication and trade in the region. It replaced an earlier cast iron carriage bridge from 1812 that had proven inadequate. The innovative lightweight design of the Cantlop Bridge with cast iron lattice girders was advanced for its time, reflecting Telford's pursuit of functional and aesthetic design.
Current Condition
Today, the Cantlop Bridge is closed to vehicular traffic and serves as a monument to 19th-century engineering. In the 1970s, it was replaced by a modern concrete bridge accommodating traffic from the road between Shrewsbury and Acton Burnell. The historic bridge is under the care of English Heritage and is freely accessible to pedestrians. There are parking facilities on site, as well as information panels providing visitors with the history and significance of the bridge.
The Cantlop Bridge is a significant testimony to early industrial architecture and offers a fascinating insight into the history of bridge building in England. A visit allows one to experience the elegance and engineering of past eras and enjoy the picturesque surroundings of the Cound Brook.
