A Network Rail project to install a new footbridge at Strathbungo in Glasgow’s southside has begun, seeing the start of the four-month scheme that comes as part of the Glasgow to Barrhead electrification project, that seeks to decarbonise Scotland’s passenger services by 2035.
This new structure comes as a direct replacement to the former 146-year-old heritage footbridge, which has since been relocated to serve the Caledonian Railway and will be installed as part of restoration work at Brechin station.
When replacing such an iconic, local piece of rail infrastructure heritage, it was vital to incorporate the needs of residents and surrounding businesses, through the consultation of 5,000 people in the summer of 2021 to vote for their preferred design.
The positive engagement and feedback from respondents came with 85% of the voting directed towards a bespoke curved design, which took direct inspiration from the former footbridge itself.
The new footbridge will incorporate a steel truss design and feature a toughened glass parapet that will achieve a sturdy and free flowing aesthetic. Other design elements adhere to the traditional stylings of its predecessor, including new structures black and white colour palette and balustrades that will match the railings already in place at Moray Place.
Michelle McCaig, Network Rail’s project manager for the bridge work, said:
“This is a significant phase of the overall project, especially given the previous involvement of the community in helping to choose a footbridge for their neighbourhood.
“Over the next three months, the structure will gradually start to emerge and by the summer it’ll reconnect Darnley Road and Moray Place.
“Given the community played such an important part in choosing the design of the new bridge, I’m confident the footbridge will enjoy the same standing as its predecessor.
“We appreciate the inconvenience for residents as we deliver this work and thank them for their continued patience.”
To accommodate safety for the engineering works, a single lane closure is in place on Darnley Road between Sainsbury’s Local and Kildrostan Street from 07 March until 19 June 2023.
Want to know more about the opportunities to become a key supplier to the UK rail industry? Attend TransCityRail and access an exclusive marketplace of buyers from Network Rail, HS2, Train Operators, Major Contractors, and all other tiers of the supply chain. For more information and to secure your place click here.
