As part of Network Rail’s commitment to improving the access at stations in London, Connect Scaffolding Ltd was appointed to install a temporary pedestrian footbridge across the tracks at New Cross Station in South East London.

Network Rail working to provide better disabled access at stations as part of the ‘Railways for All’ strategy and the organisation is focusing on developing stations which will provide modern facilities while retaining their historic value, to the benefit of all users. Projects within the scheme include new lifts, footbridges and canopy works and will involve some 148 railway stations.

Due to the limitation with possession times a solution was needed that was safe, well-engineered and quick to install, Connect’s design team utilised the Layher Bridging System, mounted on heavy duty supports with specially designed elements that allow assembly on the ground.

A full pre-build of the structure was carried out off site to ensure track possession requirements were kept to a minimum. The bridge was then craned into place during a single overnight possession. The overhead bridge also featured two DDA compliant public access staircases, fitted with anti-slip grp coverings and ‘warm-to-touch’ continuous handrails.

Through the combination of the equipment used and the commitment of Connect’s specialist team trained to work specifically on Network Rail infrastructure, delivery was completed safely, without incident, on time and within budget.