New Lifespan Structures Bridge makes the BBC News
Steven Dunn
21/10/24
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New Lifespan Structures Bridge makes the BBC News
Work to replace the Kings Meadow footbridge with a modern new structure, which is also more than double the existing width, began in the middle of June this year & was completed ahead of program to enable thousands of Reading Festival goers to use the new bridge.
The Reading Borough Council project on the banks of the Thames marked the start of a £4m, two-year investment in bridges and other structures around Reading.
The existing wooden structure at Kings Meadow was well used by pedestrians and cyclists alike as it formed a part of the National Cycle Route 5 but had deteriorated to a very unsafe state.
The existing 2 metre wide footbridge was replaced with a new Lifespan FRP bridge which is 4.5 metres wide with a span of 5m.
Work to replace the Kings Meadow footbridge with a modern new structure, which is also more than double the existing width, began in the middle of June this year & was completed ahead of program to enable thousands of Reading Festival goers to use the new bridge.
The Reading Borough Council project on the banks of the Thames marked the start of a £4m, two-year investment in bridges and other structures around Reading.
The existing wooden structure at Kings Meadow was well used by pedestrians and cyclists alike as it formed a part of the National Cycle Route 5 but had deteriorated to a very unsafe state.
The existing 2 metre wide footbridge was replaced with a new Lifespan FRP bridge which is 4.5 metres wide with a span of 5m.
With a 120 year design life, the resin infused FRP bridge will be much more robust than any other traditional form of footbridge construction over the long term & its structural core made of rPET (recycled soft drinks bottles) helps to provide a much more sustainable solution for the Client.
The overall scheme was designed by Stantec with the civils works & bridge installation being carried out by their framework contractor Volker Laser Highways.
Sam Shean, Highways & Traffic Services Manager at Reading Borough Council, said:
“This is a really important upgrade for Reading, as the King’s Meadow footbridge is a key link in our pedestrian and cycle network to encourage healthier ways to travel around Reading. The new bridge will be much more resident-friendly as it is more than double the width of the old one, and is being built from the most durable, modern materials.
“This is part of an ongoing programme of work to keep Reading’s bridges and structures in good condition….”
The overall scheme was designed by Stantec with the civils works & bridge installation being carried out by their framework contractor Volker Laser Highways.
Sam Shean, Highways & Traffic Services Manager at Reading Borough Council, said:
“This is a really important upgrade for Reading, as the King’s Meadow footbridge is a key link in our pedestrian and cycle network to encourage healthier ways to travel around Reading. The new bridge will be much more resident-friendly as it is more than double the width of the old one, and is being built from the most durable, modern materials.
“This is part of an ongoing programme of work to keep Reading’s bridges and structures in good condition….”