Work is to be undertaken to remove the old cantilevered footpath from the structure, which will reduce the overall stresses on the structure and extend the bridge's life.
The Doubledays Bridge is a heritage structure, constructed in 1871 as a rail bridge, which had a pedestrian walkway connected to the side. In 1958 the construction of a new rail line meant the bridge was no longer needed for rail purposes, so the main structure was converted into a public footbridge with the old pedestrian walkway remaining attached for heritage preservation. The old walkway has now deteriorated to the point where it is putting additional strain on the remaining structure, so must be removed. The surplus timber will be retained and reused in Silverstream Reserve nearby.
The work will include
- Using a long reach crane, the old timber beams will be disconnected and removed from the main structure.
- A registered archaeologist will oversee the works and capture records of the structure and construction methods.
- Reinstatement of any of the remaining structure that had to be temporarily disconnected to undertake the works.
Timing of work
The work is planned to be undertaken during the week starting Monday 9 March and should be completed within the week.
How the work may affect you
The bridge will be closed to the public while the works are being carried out. If it is safe to do so, the bridge will be reopened for public use when works are not actively underway.
Traffic impacts
Any required travel between Doubledays Road and Kaiapoi during that week should be planned to be via the roads rather than walking over the bridge.
General impacts
Essential services
There will be no planned disruption to your water, wastewater, telephone or power services.
Hours
All work will be undertaken between Monday to Friday, 7am and 6pm.
Weather
In the event of bad weather or for unforeseen circumstances, the work may be delayed.
Thank you for your patience while we complete this work. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us.
For more information please contact
| Aaron Kibblewhite Senior Project Engineer Waimakariri District Council Phone: 0800 965 468 Mobile: 027 648 6575 Email: aaron.kibblewhite@wmk.govt.nz | Trent Sturley Project Manager D.G.I. Morgan Ltd Mobile: 021 288 0564 |