More information : Mention is made in the Chastalary of NEWMINSTER of MORPATH bridge about the middle of the B.C. the bridge is of unknown origin.(2)
Alongside the present bridge, which was built in 1831, can be seen the piers of the medieval stone bridge. On these still remain traces of the springers of the arches. (1-3)
NZ 2002 8585: The remains of the medieval bridge consist of the two abutments and the central pier, all of which have remains of the springers of the two arches. These remains show that the bridge had an overall width of 4 metres. Other measurements are as on plan overleaf.
The remains are at present used to carry a footbridge on which is a plague giving the date of erection as 1869. (4)
1418 The Old Bridge, pier and abutments. NZ 2085 5/72 11/8/50
Grade I
13th century. Originally two arches, each of two chamfered orders, central pie and two abutments whereof the southern one had some sort of tower or toll house. The arches were destroyed early last century and replaced by an iron footbridge on the old pier. A.M. (5)
NZ 2002 8585: FB (NAT) (6)
The Old Bridge and footbridge. Grade II. Footbridge. Central pier and abutments 13th century. The rest erected by public subscription in 1869 and built by Swinney Bros. of Morpeth.
Dressed stone and iron. Of the 13th century bridge only one pier with triangular cutwaters remain. See List for full account. (7)
NZ 200 859: Old Bridge (remains of). Scheduled No ND/294. (8)
The remains of a 13th century multi span bridge across the River Wansbeck in Morpeth. The bridge was in use until 1835 when it was partially demolished and replaced by a new bridge further downstream. The abutments and central pier remain standing to about 4 metres high and are surmounted by a 19th century footbridge.(9) |