Footbridge- Saxilby
This project involved the restoration of the historic footbridge crossing Fosse Dyke in Saxilby. Originally constructed in 1883 and relocated multiple times, the bridge had undergone previous remedial work in 2011 but required further attention due to deterioration. The project included extensive repairs such as removing the bridge for off-site refurbishment, shot blasting, welding, and repainting, followed by the reinstallation of the bridge by crane.
History
The Footbridge was craned into place on Sunday, 22nd November 1987. Originally constructed in 1883 by the Great Northern Railway over the East Coast Main Line at Newark, it was relocated to Claypole, four miles south of Newark, around 1938. There it remained until June 1987, when it was removed due to British Rail's electrification programme. Upon inspection, the bridge was found to be in good condition and, with some minor repairs, was expected to last another 100 years. Ownership and maintenance were to be handled by West Lindsey District Council in the future.
Project Details
Estimated Value:
Client:
Engineer:
Main Contractor:
£150,000
West Lindsey District Council
PCC Consultants
Universal Coatings Ltd
Photographs: West Lindsey District Council
Specification
The bridge crosses Fosse Dyke and connects Bridge Street, the primary shopping location in Saxilby, with the south bank of Fosse Dyke. It is located on the site of a former swing bridge and is constructed from a redundant railway footbridge.
The bridge features a "Town" lattice truss design, named after American architect Ithiel Town, who originally patented the design in timber.
The primary span of the bridge is approximately 17.5 meters, with additional side spans measuring approximately 3.8 meters on the north side and 6.2 meters on the south side. It is designed to accommodate foot traffic and light vehicular traffic.
Scheme of Work
Remedial work was carried out on the bridge in 2011, but since then, the bridge had deteriorated, prompting a survey and the commissioning of necessary repairs.
After close liaison with the Canal and River Trust, it was determined that performing the work on-site over the water would not be practicable due to head height restrictions under the bridge, which would obstruct boat traffic.
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The project involved obtaining all necessary licenses and consents, removing all decking boards and underslung electric cables, and arranging for craneage and transportation to remove the main span, stanchions, and the two ramped ends of the bridge.
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The bridge was then transported to an off-site facility where all steel work was shot-blasted to bare metal to remove paint and rust. Gaps in the steelwork mechanical joints were welded, defective or non-compliant bolts were replaced, and any defective steel members were either replaced or strengthened. Protective primer, undercoat, and finishing paint were applied, the decking boards were refurbished and reinstated, and the bridge was transported back to the site.
Finally, the bridge was craned back into position, and the decking, electric cables, and other ancillary works were reinstated.
How did we help?
PCC Consultants were heavily involved in the repair of the bridge, contributing our expertise in various capacities:
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Conducting regular safety inspections since 2008.
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Performing a computer simulated load test to assess the bridge's capacity (pictured).
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Calculating crane lift requirements for the removal and reinstallation of the bridge.
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Developing a structural remedial repair scheme, which included replacing corroded bolts, reinforcing or replacing individual steel elements, and repainting the bridge.
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Specifying the new paint system to ensure long-term protection and durability.
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Providing ongoing involvement throughout the construction phase to oversee and ensure the quality of the work.