For this project, Aquascience Ltd was subcontracted by MP&KM Golding Ltd (Golding), who was, in turn, working for the client Forestry England (FE), to complete the construction of two new footbridges in the New Forest. The existing footbridges had become unsafe and had deteriorated beyond economically feasible repair. For the public’s safety, they had been closed for multiple years.
The existing abutments, of old brick construction from the railway, were deemed suitable to carry the new bridges. Once the abutments were prepared, the steel beams and cross bracing were assembled on the level ground and lifted into place using a machine. These were fixed down to the abutments using anchor bolts and resin.
Green oak runners and handrail posts were fitted to the steel base structure of the bridge, and it was finished with softwood anti-slip Gripdeck boards. Given the height of the bridges, and therefore their visibility, wooden boards were fitted along the edge of the steel base to give it a more cohesive appearance.
Compacted stone was added at each end of the bridges to create a shallow gradient to connect to the path. This makes the bridges accessible to more visitors. 6-inch oak bollards were installed to prevent vehicle crossing which ensures the longevity of the bridges.
The replacement of the bridges was highly successful and has allowed the path to be fully open once again.
