The existing pedestrian footbridge was a 1960’s installation and deemed to be life expired. With the footbridge forming a key part of the pedestrian’s accessibility it was crucially important that the footbridge was replaced with new upgraded versions without complication.
The works required a long working window of opportunity to allow for contingencies with the risk being ever present. In order not to disrupt the travelling public, the requirement was to not only to install a new steel modular bridge but also remove the existing concrete structure during the same working window.
The works were programmed for Easter 2014 shutdown in order to take full advantage of a 100hr possession.
Possession was granted at 01:00hrs on Friday 18th April 2014 with the first shift commencing works at first light (06:30hrs). The first challenge was to install the modular steel bridge where the new foundation had been set. The installation comprised of 6 circular supporting columns, rubble was then loaded and taken away to be recycled and turned into stone 4 staircase sets and 1 main bridge span connecting the access stairs. Using the 100 tonne self-erecting crane that was situated adjacent to the installation location the 11 staged lifts were completed and the bridge was assembled with precision. As anticipated all the bridge was installed and accepted in principle by 15:30hrs.
Despite the success of the bridge installation, the project had not been complete. Still ahead was the removal of the existing concrete footbridge. On the morning of Saturday 19th April at 06:30hrs the larger 150 tonne crane arrived tasked with removing the existing. After setting the crane spreader pads, the crane rigged and the first of the 17 loads was slung. The lifting operation was a great success with section of the concrete bridge lifted from the structure, carefully landed within ore designated demolition areas and reduced using a hydraulic cruncher. All the dismantling was all complete by 18:00hrs marked by the de-rigging of the crane at which point the works on the access bridge were complete.
Watch the works at Weeley Station here.
