Whitacre Heath Footbridge Renewal

Project Scope
FJD were tasked with the design development and detailed design for the replacement of the life expired wrought iron lattice footbridge spanning over the two tracks of the Birmingham and Derby Junction Railway. The structure provides a route over the railway from the town of Whitacre Heath to local farmlands and footpaths. The original structure was in a state of disrepair with heavily corroded metalwork and rotten timbers.

The replacement structure comprises a novel pre-cast concrete halfthrough deck and similar pre-cast concrete staircases. The structure is compliant with modern standards and is believed to be the first of its kind on the Network and will provide a design life of 120 years with minimal maintenance. The replacement structure also has provision for the future electrification of the line with compliant headroom.

The purpose of using a concrete solution was to optimise whole life costing through reduced maintenance of the structure during its working life. The ground conditions at the site afforded the opportunity for the greater inherent self-weights without real penalty due to shallow competent bedrock.

Deliverables:
- Structural design delivery to GRIP 4-8;
- Geotechnical design of permanent and temporary works;
- Engineering management support (Design Phase Only)
- Bridge removal temporary works design;
- Passive provision for future electrification at this bridge site;
- Diversity Impact Assessment completion for societal impact.

Impact on Project
- Low carbon and low maintenance structure design through the use of concrete as a material;
- Reduced disruption to railway by using weekend possessions rather than longer blockade typically utilised;
- This bridge serves as a vital connection to green space for dog walkers and others alike. It was important the severance of this connection was short-lived and delivered efficiently;
- Demonstration of what can be achieved with standardised precast concrete components. First of its kind!