Covert Way Footbridge
![client](/uploads/images/client.png)
![5m long](/uploads/images/walking_siddle_5.png)
![1.2m wide](/uploads/images/wide_2.png)
![](/uploads/images/image_galleries/lifespan_structures/814/covert_way_02.jpg)
A small bridge, just 5m span, used to gain public access across a drainage ditch into a local nature reserve. The client was concerned that a traditional timber structure would have reduced durability due to damp environment, so selected the FRP option to reduce maintenance and subsequent whole life cost. Its very well used by a lot of happy, wet and very muddy dogs!
![](/uploads/images/image_galleries/lifespan_structures/815/covert_way_manufacturing.jpg)
![](/uploads/images/image_galleries/lifespan_structures/816/covert_way_manufacturing_02.jpg)
Design
The outputs from the design process were;
- Designed to the requirements of Eurocodes, and CUR Recommendation 96
- The maximum deflection under a characteristic live load of 5kN/m2 was 30mm, less than span/100
- The minimum natural frequency was 7.0 Hz, Greater or equal to 2.3Hz
- All strains were kept below allowable limits under ULS load cases
- Bolted connections shall accommodate an allowance of at least +/-2.5mm for thermal expansion
![](/uploads/images/image_galleries/lifespan_structures/811/covert_way_cross_section_01.jpg)
![](/uploads/images/image_galleries/lifespan_structures/812/covert_way_deck_length_01.jpg)