The bridge was constructed to connect the two parts of the large chemical and soap works of Joseph Crosfield and Sons.

In 1953, it was further modified to carry loads of up to 30 long tons (30 tonnes).

The bridge is recorded in the National Heritage List for England as a designated Grade II* listed building,[4] and because of its poor condition it is on the Heritage at Risk Register.

[7] FoWTB has been featured on the local BBC News programme, North West Tonight[8] and has set up a website for the bridge[7] along with Facebook and Twitter pages.

In 2016, the bridge was nominated for the Institution of Civil Engineers North West Heritage Award.