A triple-span accommodation bridge with semi-elliptical arches, erected over a cutting c. 1839-41.

Surviving contract drawings for bridges and other structures on this section of the line carry the signature of I.K. Brunel, reflecting his involvement with every aspect of the project. The Resident Engineer was G.E. Frere (1807-87), assisted by G.T. Clark (1809-98) and Michael Lane (1802-68), but their individual contributions have not been identified.

Green Bridge was built c. 1839-41 under Contract 3C on the Wootton Bassett to Chippenham section of the route, which opened May 1841. The contract drawing was signed by the contractor Edward Price in June 1839. This stretch of the line was never quadrupled and so the bridge has not been extended. The bridge was built in Bath stone ashlar, but in the late C19 or early C20 the east (low mileage) elevation was refaced below the cornice in engineering brick.

Reasons for Listing

Green Bridge near Chippenham, constructed c.1839-41, is designated at Grade II for the following principal reasons:

Date:

an early example of a railway structure dating from the pioneering phase in national railway development

Design:

for its elegant triple-arched form, constructed in Bath stone, probably intended to create a dignified entrance to Chippenham.

Group value:

it forms a group with other architecturally-similar overbridges on the section of line between

Historic association:

it is constructed to a design by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, widely perceived as one of the most important transport engineers and architects of the C19.