Each pair of tracks has parapets (four in total) supported on cantilever beams on the top side of the Bridge, with spandrels filling in the triangular spaces above the arches.  The parapets and spandrels are highly decorative on the outward-facing sides and the parapets (but not the spandrels) are of plainer design on the inward-facing sides.  The decorative work is formed of a number of closely abutting castings bolted on.

The parts of the Bridge visible from Friar Gate are coated in many layers of paint - and the upper faces have been coated with bitumen.

Basically, the Bridge is structurally sound but drainage problems and neglect of coatings have resulted in widespread corrosion of the ironwork, especially where water runs down the abutment walls and where it pools on the deck plates.  The coatings are mostly intact but are damaged in places, which has allowed local corrosion.  The Bridge is netted because of the risk of parts falling off due to corroded fastenings.  There is also decay in the timber way-beams.

A conservation survey commissioned by Derby City Council has reported in detail on the condition of the Bridge and identified a long list of restoration tasks that are needed.  Different levels of restoration are considered:

1. To stabilise the condition of the Bridge for the medium term and allow light loadings; or
2. To restore the Bridge for the long term and allow medium loadings.

The former is considered a ‘value for money’ option by the City Council in view of constraints on local government funding.

Friends of Friar Gate Bridge are aiming for a full restoration.  This beautiful structure, a fine example of Derby engineering, should be protected for the long term.  In outline, this will require the following:

• Remove, repair and re-fix many of the decorative panels.
• Remove, repair/rebuild and re-fix the top side beams and frames.
• Replace badly decayed timber way-beams.
• Supply new cast iron gutters.
• Blast clean off old paint and apply new.
• Clean off bitumen and apply new.