Bridging the gap: the design and construction of Manor Road's new footbridge
Our team recently completed the design and construction of a footbridge on Manor Road, Oakley. The new footbridge replaces a previous timber structure that was damaged following storms and poor weather in September 2024.
During the intense storms and bad weather experienced in Bucks back in September 2024, the wooden footbridge on Manor Road, Oakley, was damaged beyond repair.
While the damaged bridge was closed to the public, a temporary footpath was constructed on the road next to the site of the former footbridge to make sure there was still an accessible route for pedestrians. This temporary footpath gave our teams the time to design and construct a brand-new footbridge.
When designing the bridge, it was important to make sure it would compliment its surroundings and the nearby footway surfacing. For that reason, the bridge features softwood timber parapets, which really make the bridge look like a part of the landscape.
Construction of the bridge was completed over a two-week period. The first week consisted of removing the existing, damaged bridge and installing the foundations for the new bridge, including the new timber guardrails. The reinforced concrete foundations had to be left to ‘cure’ for a few days before the next phase of work could begin, which involved constructing the bridge.
Whilst our teams were on site, other work was carried out in the surrounding area, including laying topsoil and re-seeding the surrounding verge and grassy areas.
Did you know?
There are currently 54 registered footbridges owned and maintained by Buckinghamshire Council, and 618 other highway structures including, road bridges, culverts, retaining walls, pedestrian underpasses and others!
In addition to this there are also 2,388 bridges under the county's public rights of way.