Tintagel Castle to get weathering steel footbridge

English Heritage plans to build a spectacular steel footbridge to link Tintagel Castle’s mainland and island wards to improve access to one of Cornwall’s most popular tourist sites.

The bridge will replace a steep winding staircase which currently prevents many visitors from enjoying the historic site and its renowned setting.

An international competition prompted 137 architects and engineers to enter their designs, and the winning design by Ney and Partners with William Matthews Associates was selected via assessment by an expert panel, in consultation with stakeholders and members of the public.

Recreating a link that once existed, the footbridge design consists of two independent cantilevers of approximately 33m length each, that reach out and touch, almost, in the middle.

For the main structure the design proposes the use of weathering steel as it does not require corrosion protection and over time will develop a rusty red or brown patina that will reflect the rugged wildness of the site.

For the handrails and sections of steelwork below the deck, stainless steel will be used.

The intention is for each half of the bridge to be built independently as cantilevers. This technique allows construction to advance sequentially into the void from the abutments, without the need for temporary supports.

All plant and construction material required for the site would be brought in and removed using a cable crane.

Steelwork for the bridge would be delivered in four to five tonne segments and delivered directly to the appropriate location on the site using the cable crane, and lowered into position.

English Heritage is looking to begin the search for a contractor in December. The tender will be advertised on Contracts Finder and the English Heritage Supplier Portal. For more, see https://in-tendhost.co.uk/english-heritage.