Did you know that the Junction Bridge has witnessed Leith’s transformation over centuries? Right here, the A901 gracefully crosses the Water of Leith. It’s more than just a crossing. The Junction Bridge is a testament to Leith’s evolving history.
The Junction Bridge is also known as Great Junction Street Bridge. It connects Great Junction Street with North Junction Street. People from Leith often call Great Junction Street simply Junction Street.
Let’s step back to 1818. The Junction Bridge was completed, featuring a single arch gracefully spanning the Water of Leith. This was part of a plan around 1800. It aimed to link Leith Walk’s foot with Ferry Road. The goal was to bypass Leith’s crowded old streets.
Now, picture the 1840s. A railway emerges north of the river. An additional arch is added to the Junction Bridge. This allowed the railway to pass beneath Great Junction Street. The bridge’s piers were wider than the road. This created a noticeable narrowing on Great Junction Street.
Fast forward to 1909. The Junction Bridge was widened to accommodate increasing traffic. Steel spans were added to each side of the arch. These were topped with reinforced concrete parapet walls. Look closely at the sides next to the street. The walls are painted to highlight the panelled effect cast in the concrete. The widening aimed to improve access to the station below. Entrances to the station were provided on each side of the road.
The east side got a concrete extension with supports touching the ground. The west side received a steel girder structure on legs. The reason for this difference remains a mystery.
In 1842, Great Junction Street was the site of a triumphal arch. It welcomed Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. Despite heavy rain, large crowds gathered. Prince Albert joked that the rain was just a Scotch mist, adding to the merriment.
Refurbished in 2012, the Junction Bridge is a mix of styles. From the road, it appears to be an art-deco era concrete bridge. But from below, its complex history is revealed. The different arch styles prompt questions about the bridge’s evolution.
The Junction Bridge stands as a reminder of Leith’s past. It connects not just roads but also eras.