Layou River Bridge

The Layou River Bridge, also known as the Hillsborough Bridge, is a significant infrastructure landmark in Dominica, spanning the Layou River in the Saint Joseph Parish. This bridge is a crucial connection between the island’s northwestern regions and the capital city, Roseau, facilitating transportation and commerce.

Historical Background of Layou River Bridge

The original bridge was commissioned in 1902 as a single-lane structure to support vehicular traffic from both directions. Administrator Hesketh Bell, in his 1903 report on Dominica’s roads and land settlement, detailed the bridge’s construction, noting that its piers and abutments extended over 13 feet below the riverbed, with the ironwork standing 22 feet above the typical water level. The bridge featured two spans measuring 120 feet and 32 feet, respectively, and was robust enough to support a railway train. Its completion not only ensured safe passage along the West Coast Road but also provided access to