Challenge

Atkins approached CTS Bridges in 2010 to provide an exact replica of the iconic Grade II listed Chinese Bridge in Godmanchester. Atkins was working on behalf of Cambridgeshire County Council, English Heritage and Godmanchester Civil Society, who were all interested parties.

The bridge had to be an identical copy, whilst incorporating the latest design codes.

Solution

CTS's Design Engineer Simon Newby worked closely with Atkins. He surveyed the original bridge taking exact measurements. He then created a drawing of the new bridge and overlaid it over a photograph of the existing bridge to ensure an exact match.  Following approval of the drawing, CTS's joiners began working on the intricate detailing on the structure.  The bridge was assembled at the factory in Huddersfield, prior to be taken to site in two halves.

Installation required the 18.5m long bridge to be brought to site in two halves and installed using a floating crane-mounted barge.

Outcome

CTS were invited to the opening ceremony of the bridge where local children were encouraged to cross the bridge and create Chinese Dragons to wave on it.  The bridge was well received with all parties and a record of the construction of the new bridge has been displayed in the local museum.