The city of Chelmsford in eastern England has welcomed a dramatic bowstring arch bridge.
Contractor Graham, supported by engineers Buro Happold, installed the two single-span bowstring arches that support the new 50m road and active travel bridge over the river Chelmer.
The first of two rust-red arches of the new bowstring bridge is lifted into place. Credit: Chelmsford City Council
Each corten steel arch weighs 110tonnes, and was manufactured in pieces off-site. Once delivered, they were welded together and fitted with stainless steel tensioning bars.
The bridge, as yet unnamed, allows navigation of the river while giving access from the city to a new waterside community under construction on a brownfield site (link opens in new tab).
The structure replaces a bailey bridge intended for use by cyclists and pedestrians. The city council has stored this bridge while it identifies a future use.
