Two steel-arched structures, with an underslung suspended deck connected by a central hub, provide a new and improved link between Telford railway station and the town centre.
Merit: Telford Central Footbridges
Architect: Nicoll Russell Studios
Structural engineer: Jacobs
Steelwork contractor: S H Structures
Main contractor: Balfour Beatty
Client: Telford & Wrekin Council
Steel was identified as the structural material early in the design stage, due to its efficient span-to-weight ratio and other benefits including safer, cost-effective offsite construction techniques.
The selected cranked alignment, parallel to the existing link, enabled the new bridge to be built while maintaining the use of the existing structure, thereby causing the minimum amount of disruption to its users.
The new structures are both based on a single-span lenticular space truss roof, fabricated from steel circular hollow sections. The over-railway structure is 27m long and the larger structure spanning the highway is 90m long.
The steel decks are supported from the truss system on hangers. For the larger bridge, the deck also acts together with the roof truss and raking end members to create a tied arch supported on piled concrete abutments, faced with blockwork.
A brickwork-clad steel structure connects the two bridges.
Produced by the BCSA and Steel for Life in association with Construction Manager
