Some pieces of railway history are lost forever. This one was saved. This Victorian footbridge is one of the fortunate few.

For over 120 years, the footbridge served Garforth Railway Station, carrying generations of passengers safely across the line. When modernisation of the UK’s East Coast Main Line required electrification and improved accessibility, the bridge could no longer remain in place. Its removal was essential for safety, space, and step-free access to both platforms. But as a listed historic structure, demolition was never an option.  A safe, long-term home was urgently needed.

A Bridge Saved — But Not Yet Secure 

BWLR stepped forward and offered to provide that home.  Our railway committed to rescuing the bridge, preserving it, and re-erecting it over our 2-foot gauge line, where it will once again serve the public. The bridge will be located at the point where a public footpath crosses the line, ensuring continued access and allowing visitors to experience an authentic piece of Victorian railway engineering up close.  This is not a static exhibit!  It will be a working, accessible structure, used and appreciated every day.   

This rescue effort is already supported by respected organisations and local groups:

• The Railway Heritage Trust has funded the groundworks and foundations required for the bridge’s re-erection
• The Trust has also offered further funding towards completion of the project
• Local cycling clubs raised £1,000 last year to help fund replacement bolts
• Our railway is powered by over 50 dedicated volunteers, all committed to securing a safe, long-term future for this piece of industrial heritage

Up-to-date restoration progress can be followed here: Why We Need Your Help Now 

Despite this incredible support, the project is at least £30,000 short of the funds required to complete the restoration and re-erection of the bridge.  Without this final funding, the bridge cannot be completed and reopened to the public.   This is the critical moment.  

The Founders’ Ticket — A Once-Only Opportunity 

To help close this funding gap, we are offering a Founders’ Ticket — created for those who care deeply about railway history, engineering, and preservation.   This is not a standard appeal.  It is an invitation to become permanently associated with the survival of a Victorian railway structure.  Once the bridge is restored and reopened, this opportunity will never be repeated.

 
What Your Founders’ Ticket Includes 

* Permanent recognition on a brass plaque 

 Your name engraved on a brass plaque displayed alongside the restored bridge, marking your role in saving and reinstating this historic structure.
 * Invitation to the private unveiling reception 

 Attend the official unveiling before public access, alongside invited guests, dignitaries, press, and fellow supporters.  The date has yet to be set but will likely be Spring 2027.

 * First official crossing of the restored bridge 

Be among the very first to cross the bridge after the ribbon is cut — a symbolic moment recorded as part of the railway’s archive.   

 * One-year pass to railway events 

Unlimited access to our railway’s public events for a full year, allowing you to enjoy the results of your support first-hand. (This includes General admission at Christmas, however exludes grotto visit tickets).

A Living Future for Victorian Engineering 

Victorian railway structures were built to last — but only if we choose to protect them. By supporting this project, you are helping to:

• Preserve an authentic, listed Victorian footbridge
• Return a historic structure to public use
• Protect Britain’s industrial heritage for future generations
• Ensure this bridge is experienced, not forgotten