Green Street footbridge replacement
Public realm scheme
VolkerHighways, and sister business unit VolkerFitzpatrick’s structures team removed and replaced a life expired pedestrian footbridge over the London Victoria to Ramsgate railway cutting, in Gillingham, Kent, on behalf of Medway Council.
What we did
The new footbridge is longer and wider than the previous structure, giving pedestrians more space to pass.
VolkerHighways’ role in the project:
- Preparation works, including the planning, design, and fabrication of the bridge
- Completion of surveys and bridge inspections
- Installation of electrical feeder pillars and duct work
- Traffic management works, including closing footways and local roads, and implementing pedestrian diversions
- Reinstatement of the footway paving
- Installation of street lighting columns and street furniture
- Completion and handing back the site to Medway Council for opening to the public
VolkerFitzpatrick’s specialist work included:
- Construction of the new in-situ reinforced concrete foundations
- Undertaking a 25 hour possession, using a Liebherr 450t mobile crane, to remove the old bridge and install a new, 33m by 3m, 35 tonne steel truss bridge
Project successes
The project was completed a week ahead of programme, with significant savings for the council and reduced disruption to residents.
The works were part of VolkerHighways highway term maintenance contract with Medway Council, and highlights the benefits of working collaboratively with the wider VolkerWessels UK group, combining their knowledge and providing a seamless end-to-end solution.
"I am pleased that the new improved footbridge in Green Street, Gillingham, is now open. It is testament to the hard work of our partners that works on the bridge were completed sooner than expected. This project is a great example of collaborative working with VolkerHighways, VolkerFitzpatrick, Nusteel and Network Rail. The new bridge is wider, which will make it easier for pedestrians and wheelchair users to pass others, and new lighting has been installed."
Cllr Phil Filmer, Medway Council’s Portfolio Holder for Frontline Services