Rolster Bridge

Rolster Bridge is a road bridge over the Harbourne River, likely built in the 17th to 18th century on earlier foundations, with alterations made in the early 19th century. The bridge is constructed of slate rubble and features slate voussoirs for its arches. It has two widely spaced semi-circular arches, with the east arch being the larger of the two. The smaller west arch appears to be a later addition and currently carries the main stream, which was diverted, leaving the larger east arch to function as a flood arch. It seems that the east arch was widened on the north upstream side during this time. At the springing of the main arch, there are indications of earlier bridge footings, likely from the bridge referenced by John Leland between 1534 and 1543, described as "a Stone Bridge caullid Rostel." The parapets are made of long vertical slates, with the south side having been realigned. A large reinforcement buttress, resembling a cutwater, is located on the north upstream side and helps to divert the stream to the west arch.