As part of these works Cheesmur were appointed by Lewes District Council in March 2021 to achieve the extremely challenging task of replacing the entrance bridge to the historic fort in readiness for the summer. The fort is a Scheduled Ancient Monument and remained closed whilst the existing pedestrian and vehicle access bridge was removed and the new bridge constructed in galvanised steel and English oak. Despite the current Covid and Brexit related materials and resource shortages, Cheesmur were able to hand over the bridge on 14th June. This allowed Lewes District Council and the fort managers, Wave Leisure Trust, to gain access and take deliveries in preparation for opening and the celebrations of the fort’s 150thanniversary.

Duncan Kerr, CEO at Wave Leisure Trust, said: “We can’t wait to open our doors again. This year we’re celebrating the Fort’s 150th year – a remarkable event and one that we’ll be celebrating with visitors new and old."

Councillor Ruth O’Keeffe, Cabinet member for Tourism and Devolution, said: “I am delighted the fort, which plays a very important role in our district’s heritage, is back open again for local people and tourists alike to enjoy.  We decided to make a substantial investment to replace the bridge, rather than keep on making temporary repairs, such is the value we place on keeping the fort open for future generations.”

Read more about the project in this article published on the Lewes & Eastbourne Council website.