Community organisers are optimistic the world-renowned Bennerley Viaduct will open later this year, following 50 years of closure.
The first phase in the million-pound project to restore and reopen the historic viaduct is said to be on track.
The disused railway viaduct, which is a Grade II listed structure dating back to 1877, straddles the Nottinghamshire-Derbyshire border between Awsworth and Ilkeston.
It is hoped 2021 will be a milestone year for the viaduct as the area previously associated with decay and dereliction, is being transformed into a community asset and a major tourist attraction.
It is one of only two wrought iron viaducts left in the UK and last year joined a list of 25 of the most at-risk world monuments, including Notre Dame in Paris.
The list, created by the World Monuments Fund, aims to discover, highlight and ultimately help save irreplaceable landmarks.
Since 2018, members of the Friends of Bennerley Viaduct (FoBV) have worked together with the viaduct owners Railway Paths Ltd (RPL) as part of the “Access to Heritage” project which aims to restore the structure, enable public access and create an inspirational green public space which has the 'Iron Giant' as its stunning centrepiece.
In July 2019, planning consent was granted to bring the viaduct back into use as a walking and cycling trail and the project has so far had an investment of £1.4million from various backers including key funders, The Railway Heritage Trust, the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Historic England.
The plans include new decking, ramps at either end and connections to surrounding paths "in order to bring the viaduct to life."
In its most recent update, as Covid restrictions begin to lift and spring is well underway, progress at the viaduct continues with the construction of its western ramp.
A spokesperson for the FoBV said: "Despite floods, blizzards, frosts, winds and lockdown, contractors at the viaduct have been busy constructing the ramp which will provide access to the deck of the viaduct from the Erewash Canal.
"The ramp is designed so the maximum gradient will be no more than 1 in 15.
"This will help the deck of the viaduct become accessible to all sections of the community."
Other exciting highlights for those involved with the viaduct include featuring in UKTV's 'The Architecture the Railways Built'.
The spokesperson added: "The outcome of the broadcast was phenomenal. Our website received an avalanche of interest and our twitter feed was bombarded. This inundation of interest resulted with a huge surge in applications to the Friends Group."
There is also plans for an 'Iron to Iron' bike ride to connect the two remaining wrought iron viaducts in Britain - the Meldon Viaduct and Bennerley Viaduct.
This six day tour of iron, will pass through countryside taking in other iconic bridges such as the Clifton Suspension Bridge, Severn Bridge, iron Bridge and the Friargate Bridge.
At over 500 kilometers with 15,000 feet of climbing, the ride should be a test for those taking part.
The six day adventure will take place between Monday, September 13 to Sunday, September 19 and will cost £300 to cover transport, accommodation and support vehicle.
