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Condition of German Church footbridge
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ForestDweller


Posts: 7
Joined: Oct 2013
Post: #1
14-08-2014 11:06 AM

Ok, so have emailed highways dept and got this very confusing reply back, which went on at length about several issues I didn't ask about and then suggests that the steps will be repaired sometime this financial year (!)

The email confuses the steps/deck of the bridge several times and I'm assuming that this was unintentional and they mean the whole bridge, but I have emailed them back to clarify. Also, if they really have plans to repair it, surely they have more detailed plans than "this financial year" since they would have to get quotes for the work, plan for it, book in a time to do it and close the bridge.... doesn't add up to me!

Thanks for your email.

The Council is currently working on a scheme on Sydenham Footbridge to replace the bridge deck, as this now needs replacing.

An extensive feasibility study has previously been carried out with regard to providing a ramp access or a subway. The main issue is that due to the gradient required for the ramp or subway the total length of the approach ramp just on one side is in excess of 240m in length. Due to the limited space on either side of the bridge it is near impossible to fit this in even with a change in direction of the ramp. On the Dacres Road side of the bridge the path from the bridge also falls away which means the ramp on this side would be considerably longer.

Consideration was given to installing lifts but this was rejected on safety grounds and the structure is relatively remote and despite being monitored this would be remote form the bridge itself thus should people get stuck or need assistance this would not be immediate. In addition due to the relatively remote location there is a likelihood of vandalism or breakdown making the lifts un-usable and therefore not a viable solution.

The only option therefore is carry out what improvements we can to the staircase and these works will be carried out this financial year.

In the meantime I have asked our highway inspector for this area to check the condition of the new steps and to arrange for any potentially hazardous defects to be repaired.
I hope this is helpful.

regards

Imogen Payami

Transport Policy & Development
Casework
4th Floor
Laurence House
Catford Rd
Lewisham SE6 4RU
Tel: 020 8314 2235
Email: imogen.payami@lewisham.gov.uk

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RE: Condition of German Church footbridge - ForestDweller - 14-08-2014 11:06 AM