Dumb Bell Bridge (MLN12263)

MATERIALS: London stock brick, with Bramley Fall stone coping and string course. Large patch of engineering brick repair on the east abutment of the north (Up) side. Small metal ties inside the north (Up) arch ring.

DESCRIPTION: single 32ft (9.8m) semi-elliptical span, skewed across the road. Detailing and materials are generally consistent between the c.1838 south (Down) face and the c. 1875-84 north (Up) face. A straight joint between the two phases is visible in the soffit of the bridge. Both elevations with bold stone cornice/string course and abutments treated as broad pilaster strips. Originally with a stepped brick plinth, but this has been cut back.

Some variation between the two façades:

South (Down) side: the c.1838 elevation, with radiused abutments, on top of which the parapet steps up. The west abutment projects slightly to form a rectangular enclosure for pedestrian steps from road to rail level. These were approached through the tall semi-circular opening. The opening is now closed by a timber fence and gate; it is not clear if the steps survive. The east abutment adjoins a long raked wing wall following the skewed line of the road. The brick arch ring has been damaged by road vehicles.

North (Up) side: the c.1875-84 elevation is slightly simplified. The abutments are not curved. The east abutment is rectangular in plan but has blank elevations and no stairs; the west abutment is splayed into a long raked wing following the skewed line of the road.