Old railway bridge Kupferdreh – historic structure before renovation

Essen, Baldeneysee, February 1, 2024. The Railway bridge The bridge between Heisingen and Kupferdreh is undoubtedly a significant testament to Essen's industrial history and the fastest non-motorized connection between the Essen districts of Heisingen and Kupferdreh via the Baldeneysee. Now, the historic structure is facing comprehensive renovation. Many will have noticed: back in October 2024, the ten viewing platforms of the popular and heavily used cycle and pedestrian bridge had to be closed for safety reasons.

A routine safety inspection revealed significant defects in the wooden structure. The bridge is now to undergo a complete renovation. Mayor Thomas Kufen personally inspected the structure and the planned measures on January 26. "The comprehensive replacement of the wooden structure will be carried out in conjunction with the renewal of the corrosion protection on the steel truss structure," Kufen explained. The bridge, which was opened in 1872 and reopened in 1984 after reconstruction, is not only an important connection for pedestrians and cyclists, but also a historical monument.

The planned closure is necessary to ensure the safety of users and to preserve the bridge for future generations. The city of Essen emphasizes that preparations for the renovation must be carried out with particular care due to the structure's historical significance. In addition to renewing the wooden structure and applying corrosion protection, further measures are planned for stabilization and long-term preservation. Cyclists and especially pedestrians will be affected. Inline skaters will inevitably have noticed the significant height differences between the individual wooden planks, some of which have already been replaced.

The bridge will be closed to pedestrian and bicycle traffic during construction. The City of Essen asks all citizens for their understanding regarding the restrictions and suggests alternative routes. Baldeneysee.Ruhr recommends the new [route name missing] as an alternative. Kampmann Bridge To cross the Baldeneysees and the Ruhr River near Kupferdreh. Pedestrians can walk along the lake in Heisingen, past the terrace of the See-Bar. Cyclists and inline skaters are advised to use the paved path a few meters above the See-Bar. The aim of the renovation is to make the bridge fully usable again after completion of the work and to preserve its historical significance. The construction is expected to take approximately two years.

The old railway bridge at Baldeneysee connects the Essen districts of Kupferdreh and Heisingen. It once served as a direct link between the Zeche Carl Funke Built next to Kupferdreh station, it is now used by pedestrians, hikers, cyclists, inline skaters and joggers as part of the Lake round or to circumnavigate the Baldeneysee It is used. The Ruhr Valley Cycle Path also crosses the railway bridge. It is sometimes referred to as a wooden bridge because the decking consists of wooden beams. In fact, however, the old railway bridge is a classic steel structure.