Network Rail took a massive leap in constructing a footbridge that’s developed using plastic material with easy installation put in place. The design is different, too. The footbridge above the rail track is circular in shape, changing the thoughts on the way bridges can be built.
The team of organisations that worked with Network Rail is mentioned below, while developing the new bridge.
- Knight Architects came up with the concept.
- JT Consulting designed, manufactured and installed the Rapid Root foundation system.
- Epsilon Optics designed, manufactured and installed the fibre-optic monitoring system.
- KS Composite, a UK-based manufacturer whose usual clients include prestige car manufacturers and Formula One teams, made the bridge spine.
- Consulting engineer Jacobs provided design expertise and independent checking of the design.
- Sui Generi, another UK manufacturer specializing in moulded components (including tractor bodywork) made the deck units that clamp to the spine.
- Q-Railings installed the glazed parapet railing.
- Flofo provided virtual working platforms and new approaches to team working and monitoring the risks and opportunities of the project.
The prototype fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) rail footbridge has been trial built at a test centre in Long Marston, Warwickshire. FRP is much lighter than steel and the bridge can be installed in just days, and its modular design means it can be adapted to different locations.
FRP rail footbridge also has built-in monitoring to assess usage and maintenance needs. This new design will be adopted across the country as part of a wider programme of work to transform how footbridges are built on the rail network.