Campaigners for the iconic Bennerley Viaduct are calling on members of the public to back the recently submitted planning application.
In what has been described as "a historic milestone", a detailed plan for the disused railway viaduct will aim to bring it back into use as a walking and cycling trail after securing £485,000 in funding.
Railway Paths Ltd (RPL) and the Friends of Bennerley Viaduct (FoBV) made a Bennerley Viaduct set to be given a new lease of life, as work due to begin by the end of summer saying they had secured the money which was enough to start work in transforming the landmark.
The viaduct, a Grade ll listed structure dates back to 1877 and lies on the border between Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire between Awsworth and Ilkeston.
With the plans submitted to both Broxtowe and Erewash Borough Councils, members of the Friends of Bennerley Viaduct group are now asking for help in supporting the application.
By commenting on the applications either through the planning department's website or writing a letter of support, it's hoped that the application will be granted.
Bennerley Viaduct set to be given a new lease of life, as work due to begin by the end of summer
Jeff Wynch, chairman at the Friends of Bennerley Viaduct added: "The Friends of Bennerley Viaduct feel there is a groundswell of support in both communities (Broxtowe and Erewash).
"We are also committed to fundraising for future work, and welcome any donations. Membership is £5 to the Friends group if people want to get involved directly.
"There is also the opportunity to come along and support through our work days. We are contributing directly to the viaduct plans by clearing the way for contractors at the moment.
"As the project progresses, we are looking at a more long term role for the group and will need people with all different skills to join."
In the design and access statement submitted to Broxtowe Borough Council, the RPL said: "By bringing the viaduct into use for public access it will give this valuable heritage asset a more certain future as doing so will attract resources for its ongoing upkeep and conservation."
The bridge, standing at 60 feet high, closed in 1968 and was earmarked for demolition but its iron construction made it expensive to dismantle.
It is one of only two wrought iron trestle viaducts left standing in the UK.
The plans are to change the use from railway viaduct to public footpath, through the installation of timber deck, steps, a walk way, an access ramp and path, including connections to existing public rights of way.
It is aimed at both pedestrians and cyclists and the work is estimated to take around 18 months, to be completed by the end of 2020.
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