Essential works to upgrade White Mills Bridge, Earls Barton completed

01 July 2026

Representatives from North Northamptonshire Council were joined by local councillors, project partners, contractors and members of the community this week to officially open a new bridge near Earls Barton.

White Mills Bridge, between Grendon Road and Station Road, has been fully rebuilt, after the previous structure was found to be unable to carry the required loads, ensuring it can safely support traffic well into the future. 

The complex, innovative project was delivered by main highways’ contractor, Kier Infrastructure, supported by their supply chain partners CLM Construction, Bridges & Highways Maintenance Ltd, and Phoenix Surfacing.

As part of the demolition of the existing bridge, the bridge was cut into three separate sections and lifted out by crane. The new bridge was then installed, alongside additional works including: 

• Surface and carriageway resurfacing on the approaches to the bridge
• Repair of damaged kerbs
• Upgraded traffic signal sensors
• Gullies cleansed and vegetation clearance 
• Repairs to the masonry and repointing the bridge and culvert walls, plus rebuilt brick parapets 
• Repairs to advanced warning signage

On a vital route for the local economy, the new bridge plays a key role, providing access between the nearby quarry and the A45. The new structure is stronger, safer, and designed with a 120-year lifespan.

An added challenge for the project was the river beneath the bridge, with water levels fluctuating significantly during the wet weather in February and March, reducing the available headroom to work beneath the bridge deck.

This was an extremely complex project which has seen a new, long-lasting bridge installed.

But alongside the bridge works, we have been able to utilise the road closure to undertake as much maintenance as possible on the route.

This scheme has always been about looking to the future - ensuring this well-used bridge and route is suitable for the traffic that passes across it.

I want to take this opportunity to thank residents, road users and those who use the waterway beneath the bridge for their patience whilst this vital work has been undertaken.Cllr Chris McGiffen, the council’s Executive Member for Highways and Travel,

As a councillor, I know how important this bridge is for residents - I am delighted to see works completed.

Whilst it is great for council representatives to come together with partners to celebrate the works that have been undertaken, the most important part is to get the bridge and road open for local motorists, plus boat owners and those that enjoy the River Nene so everyone can continue to enjoy this wonderful part of North Northamptonshire.Cllr Martin Griffiths, Leader of North Northamptonshire Council.

I would like to take the opportunity to thank the community for their patience and cooperation whilst we delivered this vital bridge upgrade.

With the majority of the works carried out over the winter months, we faced significant challenges with the changing weather conditions, all whilst operating within a waterway.

This project is a prime example of the importance of delivering meaningful infrastructure upgrades to keep our communities moving safely, now and into the future.Allan Rigby, General Manager for Kier Infrastructure.

The project was funded through the Department for Transport’s Local Transport Grant allocation.