Restoration works to this footbridge returned it to its original structural design preserving one of the few ‘Harper Bridge’ designs remaining in the UK and an important piece of British engineering history.
A method was devised by the engineers to carry out the restoration without support works, allowing the bridge to remain open throughout and creating a considerable cost saving for their client.
The structural engineers carried out considerable research into the history of the bridge and even consulted with the original designer’s grandson who himself researched the history of Harper bridges.
The scheme recognised that only the suspension bridge hangers were in need of replacement and researched the original details thus returning it as close as was feasible to its original design.
In this way the suspension cables were saved which resulted not only in a highly sustainable solution but saved significant cost and areas of the original structure.
The judges were particularly impressed by this minimalist approach which was underpinned by detailed research and sound engineering judgement.