Suspension Bridge

From 14 September, and for two years, the Tonnay-Charente suspension bridge will be closed to pedestrians and cyclists. A diversion will be put in place. The bus stops at Quais, Jardins du Capucins, Rue du Parc and Pas Lolet will no longer be served; the service will be diverted to Rue de la Salé.

Launched in 1842 on the plans of Louis Dor, the Suspension Bridge is one of the oldest ones in Europe with its 620 meters length.
The apron, 204 m long and 5 m wide, is carried by 51 ogival archways and overlooks the Charente River at 23 m above the highest waters. After several years of service, the bridge collapsed on August 1883 and the apron dropped as well before reaching the test threshold.
Only in 1885, the bridge reopened to traffic after having been rebuilt by the engineer Ferdinand Arnodin.
Stunning views over the marshland and the quays of Tonnay-Charente.
The bridge is inaccessible on foot or by bike until further notice due to engineering works.
A major restoration project is planned for the coming years.

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