Pedestrian Footbridge, Southampton

Overview

Mason Clark Associates (MCA) was appointed by Ekspan to provide technical support for the replacement of the bridge bearings on a steel pedestrian footbridge in West Quay, Southampton. The structure, which provides access between a shopping centre and car park, features a cable-stayed canopy roof and required detailed input to enable safe temporary works during bearing installation.

Our role included the production of a bridge bearing schedule, a structural assessment of the deck for jacking loads, and advice on temporary fencing layout to reduce pedestrian loadings during works.

Challenges and Solutions

• Initial analysis showed the bridge deck could not support jacking loads without strengthening.
• Strengthening would have required scaffold access, hot works, and increased pedestrian disruption.
• We re-analysed the structure and proposed reduced jacking loads paired with fencing to limit live loads.
• This approach eliminated the need for structural strengthening.
• During installation, as-built conditions differed from archive drawings. We quickly updated bearing schedule loads to avoid delays.
• Continuous dialogue with Ekspan ensured timely resolution of issues throughout the project.

MCA's Contribution

MCA’s engineers created a detailed plan for the new bridge bearings that took into account the different forces the bridge would experience, such as people walking across it and changes in weather. The plan included clear instructions for the type of bearings to be used and how they should be installed using temporary works. This helped the team carry out the work smoothly and safely, even when unexpected conditions arose.

MCA’s scope of works included:

• Producing a bridge bearing schedule detailing required load and movement capacities.
• Assessing the bridge deck against temporary jacking loads.
• Creating a 3D model in Midas Civil for structural analysis.
• Advising on temporary fencing layout to reduce pedestrian loading.
• Rapidly responding to unexpected changes in onsite conditions during installation.
• Liaising closely with Ekspan to support bearing design and on-site works.

Results

The project was completed successfully, with replacement bridge bearings installed as planned.

Our responsive input prevented costly structural works and kept the project on programme.

The client was pleased with the outcome, citing effective communication and technical accuracy throughout.

The scheme showcased our practical problem-solving skills and proactive collaboration with the contractors. Our ability to swiftly adapt to on-site conditions contributed to the successful delivery of the project, meeting the client’s expectations and opening the door for the contractor to secure similar future work.