12th October, 1831

The Cross Keys Bridge and embankment at Sutton Bridge, opened on this date, afforded direct communication between Norfolk and Lincolnshire and the North of England.

By these works nearly 18,000 acres of land were recovered from the sea. The opening ceremony commenced with a procession of carriages over the bridge and embankment, and concluded with a dinner in a marquee erected near the works. Three hundred guests were present, and Sir William ffolkes MP presided.

The current bridge over the River Nene, the third on the site, opened in 1897. It still carries traffic on the busy A17 road.