PORTSTOWN FOOTBRIDGE
Project Overview
The Portstown Footbridge project was a key infrastructure development undertaken in Portstown, UK, as part of a larger scheme led by Malcolm Allan Housebuilders Ltd. IDH was involved in this project from November 2022 to July 2023. The Portstown Footbridge project involved constructing a two-span steel Vierendeel bridge over the River Urie, enhancing access between Ury Riverside Park and the new housing development near Uryside School. The footbridge was designed to accommodate both cyclists and pedestrians, featuring a clear deck width of 3.05 metres and a load capacity of 20 kN/m2.
IDH Group provided a comprehensive, detailed design package that included 3D models, general arrangement drawings, workshop drawings, temporary works designs, and calculations for the crane platforms and lifting conditions.
Challenges
- Poor Ground Conditions: The construction site presented challenging soil conditions, with weak ground that posed a risk to the structural stability of the footbridge. These conditions needed to be addressed to ensure the long-term safety and integrity of the bridge, requiring a specialised foundation solution.
- Prefabrication and Assembly: The bridge was designed to be prefabricated in segments and assembled on-site. This process required precise coordination to ensure that the prefabricated segments were delivered and installed without delays. The logistical challenges of on-site assembly, particularly ensuring smooth site welding and alignment of sections, added to the project’s complexity.
Solution
To overcome the project’s challenges, IDH employed a combination of innovative engineering techniques and carefully planned strategies:
- Piled Foundation System: Because of the poor ground conditions, IDH designed a robust piled foundation system that provided the necessary support to stabilise the bridge. This solution ensured the bridge could withstand the challenging soil environment and remain stable for its lifetime.
- Efficient Prefabrication and Assembly Process:IDH provided a comprehensive design package, including detailed workshop drawings that facilitated the smooth prefabrication of the bridge segments. The on-site assembly process was meticulously planned to avoid delays, and the prefabricated sections were successfully welded and installed with precision.
Outcome
As a result of IDH’s innovative solutions and collaborative efforts, the project delivered a range of successful outcomes:
- Improved Connectivity: The Portstown Footbridge has significantly enhanced local infrastructure, providing a vital connection between Ury Riverside Park and the surrounding residential areas. This new route has boosted accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists, with an estimated 100 daily users, encouraging sustainable travel while linking important community spaces that were previously divided by the River Urie.
- Innovative Engineering Solutions: Despite challenging ground conditions, IDH successfully implemented an innovative piled foundation system to ensure the bridge’s stability. The precise prefabrication and smooth on-site assembly of the footbridge demonstrated IDH’s ability to overcome design challenges, delivering the project on time and within budget.
- Positive Community Impact: The bridge has created a safer and more efficient connection between key locations in the area, enhancing accessibility for residents. By linking the park, housing development, and nearby school, the footbridge fosters stronger community integration and offers an accessible route for families, commuters, and local visitors.
This project now marks one of many footbridges that IDH has successfully designed. Our growing portfolio reflects our deep expertise in footbridge design, enabling us to deliver tailored solutions that address the unique challenges of each project. As trusted partners in the field, we leverage our knowledge and experience to ensure that every project meets the highest standards of safety and innovation. With every footbridge project, IDH continues to build on its reputation as a trusted partner in the engineering sector, dedicated to enhancing community connectivity.
“New Civil Engineering – Bridge Contractor of the Year 2024, Beaver Bridges puts great value in our strategic supply chain partners, and our collaboration with IDH Design on the Portstown Footbridge project is a testament to this. Their innovative solutions and commitment to quality played a vital role in the project’s success, demonstrating the strength of our combined expertise.” – Richard Hinckley, Business Director, Beaver Bridges
Are you tackling a challenging structural project?
At IDH, we specialise in crafting innovative structural solutions, including expert footbridge designs and intricate temporary works. If you’re looking for a partner that can navigate complexities and deliver customised solutions, contact us today to discuss your project requirements.