Using weathering steel for a pedestrian and cycle link minimises weight and disruption
Said to be reminiscent of Viking longships, Scarborough Footbridge spans the River Ouse in York providing a new pedestrian and cycle link between the city centre and main railway station.
The weathering steel bridge comprises two 22m-long main river spans which are formed of prefabricated box girders with integral curved parapets and cantilevered deck plates.
Meanwhile, two 10m-long side spans cross over the existing river footpath and are formed of prefabricated u-troughs with integral parapets and deck plate to match the main river spans.
Stability of the cantilevered main spans was achieved with mechanical uplift bearings. Tensioned straining wires run through integral eyelets on the parapets, which are anchored into masonry-clad anchor blocks at either end of the structure.
Aecom regional director, transportation, Peter Robinson says: “To minimise weight and maximise prefabrication, steel was the obvious choice for the scheme.
“Steelwork was also beneficial as it helped form a lightweight, aesthetic structure that required minimal work at height over water and therefore caused minimal disruption to the operational railway.”
The judges said the bridge wholly fulfils the brief, promoting sustainable transport for all users through the city.
- Merit: Scarborough Footbridge, York
- Architect: Network Rail
- Structural engineer: Aecom
- Main contractor: AmcoGiffen
- Client: City of York Council
