The works were commissioned by National Trust (office based within Norfolk) and the purpose of the project was to link two areas of the reserve at Wicken Fen, which was a biological Site of Special Interest.
Beaver Bridges provided a full turnkey package, from design phase, through to integrating health, safety and welfare into the planning and management of this construction project. This involved careful planning of each element from development stage; including build, installation, maintenance, end user and the safe removal or modification of the structure. Beaver Bridges supplied all resources including staff, machinery, equipment, tools and materials. Site-specific inductions for all site staff ensured had the skills and competency to enable them to safely carry out their relevant tasks – safely and efficiently paying attention to the local environment and general site safety.
We monitored each task, and carefully considered the health and safety of everyone who was working on the project, and those who came into contact with the site and surrounding area. We kept the site safe and secure at all times, maintained direct lines of communication with our client and designer, consulting and sharing any relevant information with them and with our site team where relevant. Health and safety being at the forefront of our daily activities.
The structure was designed in line with CDM Regulations – constructed from curved steel beams to provide the arch and designed as two modules for bolting together on site. The two modules were delivered to site with timber clad parapets pre-fitted in the factory. Following the placement and connection of the two modules the wooden decking boards were added, thereby completing the installation.
The new bridge spans an existing bridle path and a vehicle track. The new bridge provides access for livestock such as cattle, Roe deer and the Konik ponies; a European breed introduced to the area in 2001, that thrives in wetland areas, and allows them to roam freely between grazing pastures. The project was completed to the client’s satisfaction; successfully, on time and in a professional manner.
