Derby footbridge installed over A52

Working on behalf of main contractor Galliford Try and the client Derby City Council, S H Structures has successfully installed a new foot and cycle bridge spanning the A52 in central Derby.

Forming an important link between the residential district of Chaddesden and the retail and business parks surrounding Derby County’s Pride Park stadium, the bridge is part of the Wyvern Transport Improvement Scheme.

Designed by AECOM, the steel bridge is 81m-long × 4.3m-wide and features an arch fabricated from 559mm × 25mm CHS members that reaches a maximum height of 14m. In addition to the main bridge, the steelwork contract also included the installation of extensive access ramps.

The bridge deck will have a resin anti-slip surface, while handrail lighting and decorative arch lighting, designed to have minimal impact on nearby residential properties will provide a safe environment for bridge users.

With a total steel tonnage of 180t, the bridge was delivered to site in sections and then assembled on temporary works alongside the A52 close to its final position.

The complete bridge was lifted into place using a 600t-capacity crawler crane during a weekend road closure.

Councillor Matthew Holmes, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Planning, Regeneration and Transportation said: “The new bridge will provide improved accessibility from the retail and business parks, enhancing walking and cycling facilities for all.”