Temporary footbridge swung into place on Winterstoke Road
This weekend saw exciting scenes outside of Weston-super-Mare, as a large crane put in place the temporary footbridge that will maintain pedestrian access throughout the replacement of Winterstoke Road Bridge.
Winterstoke Road Bridge was built during the Second World War and has come to the end of its lifespan. It currently has a weight restriction for heavier vehicles and without replacement would have to close to all traffic permanently within the next five to ten years.
Demolition of the existing bridge is due to start in December, followed by works to build a new bridge that will secure this important route along Winterstoke Road for the next 125 years.
As Winterstoke Road provides a key connection between local communities, schools, jobs and businesses, it’s vital that people living in the immediate area have a choice as to how they get around.
The new footbridge will allow shorter and more manageable journeys to continue being made on foot or by bike, avoiding possible traffic and diversions when choosing to leave the car at home.
Councillor Mike Bell, Leader of North Somerset Council, said: “Winterstoke Road has a long history of serving our area, with the bridge dating back over 80 years to when it connected Weston’s workers with the RAF’s aeroplane factory.
“Many decades on from the war effort, it remains important infrastructure that many of us use day-in, day-out. Whether travelling between family, friends, work or leisure, the bridge supports hundreds of journeys a week, which is why it’s critical that we prepare for the future and build a replacement bridge that can serve many generations to come.
“As the bridge crosses over an active rail line, there will be a period during construction where there is no access for vehicles. We appreciate that this will add more pressure onto other roads at times. It is hoped that the temporary footbridge will provide a well-used alternative during construction, giving local people more choice as to how they get from A to B.”
Councillor Ciaran Cronnelly, ward member for Weston-super-Mare Winterstoke, added: “Whilst it won’t be suitable for all journeys, each shorter and more manageable trip taken over the footbridge can reduce the number of cars using diversion routes, meaning we can each do our bit to improve traffic flows for our family, friends and neighbours when they do need to use the roads.”
Chris Hudson, Operations Director at Octavius Infrastructure, said: “The replacement of the Winterstoke Road Bridge is a major civil engineering undertaking, made especially complex by deep, soft ground conditions that make substructure works challenging.
“To keep the community connected, we have now successfully installed a 43-metre-long temporary footbridge over the operational railway. This required multidisciplinary design, precision planning, and strong foundations – including 18 deep-driven piles, reinforced concrete pile caps, and robust support trestles – as well as the use of a 750-tonne crane to lift the footbridge into place.
“Although earlier installation attempts were delayed by weather, that time was used effectively to progress other critical works. This milestone showcases the expertise and collaboration of everyone involved and marks an important step forward in delivering this project for the community and North Somerset Council.”
The replacement of Winterstoke Road Bridge is being funded by the Ministry of Defence. To find out more about the scheme including upcoming road diversions, lane closures and construction milestones, visit n-somerset.gov.uk/winterstokeroadbridge
