Central Bridge spanned the approaches to Southampton Terminus station, the original terminus of the London & Southampton Railway. It was built by the London & South Western Railway in 1881-82 to the design of the company's engineer, William Jacomb, by Bull & Son and the Horseley Company Limited.

This plaque, at the south east end of the bridge, records its construction. Photographed on 16th April 2011. photograph by Gregory Beecroft

The bridge once spanned many tracks, but now just the single track into the Eastern Docks passes below it. photograph by Gregory Beecroft

The section of the bridge which crossed over the tracks comprises a series of riveted, wrought iron box girders, which support the road deck. These are supported on riveted wrought iron piers. photograph by Gregory Beecroft

In contrast, a span at the east end, crossing over Royal Crescent Road, has brick jack arches. This is the part of the bridge that is most easily seen from ground level. photograph by Gregory Beecroft

A most distinctive and attractive feature of the bridge is the cast iron balustrades and four ornate lamp standards. photograph by Gregory Beecroft

There is a red brick approach viaduct to the west, with Portland stone dressings. Unfortunately, the face of the viaduct has been cement rendered. The arches are to an unusual, four-centred profile, with a slight peak at the crown. There is an unremarkable, modern concrete approach ramp at the east end. photograph by Gregory Beecroft

The bridge has recently been renovated by Network Rail. It forms an important part of Southampton's road network, being the main link from Woolston Bridge into the city centre