which is a most substantial structure, 410 ft. in length, and composed of
seven arches, crowned by a bold balustrade; the primary object in its
construction was to contrive as much space as possible for the water
during floods, to accomplish which, the central arch (60 feet in
diameter) was raised double the height of the end arches, an elevation
perhaps not accordant with or agreeable to later opinions of ease and
convenience. With the exception of this defect, its elegance and beauty
of architecture is probably surpassed by few bridges in the kingdom, and
is in every respect an ornament to the town, and an equally noble
monument of the public spirit and generosity of the gentry of the county,
who so laudably exerted themselves to further its erection.
The ornamental parts, though sparingly are yet tastefully disposed. The
keystone of the central arch on the north side is adorned with a fine
head of SABRINA, “goddess of the river,” while that on the opposite side
bears a spirited head of NEPTUNE, the “father of fountains.” On the
piers of this arch rest finely carved dolphins. The keystones of the
other arches are worked into a shell. The parapet of the bridge rises
into a pediment, in the centre of which (on each side facing the river)
is the town arms, and the date of the completion of the bridge,
MDCCLXXIV.
The total cost, including the purchase of the houses which stood on and
near the bridge, acts of parliament, &c. was £15,710. 3s. 3d.