Bridge maintenance and how equality impacts were considered

Maintaining the existing structure

The current scheme focuses on essential maintenance works to to preserve the structure and extend its operational life, ensuring it can continue serving the community for many years. 

Why a full bridge replacement was not selected and how equality impacts were considered

The scope of the current project is limited to essential maintenance of the existing structure to extend its service life, rather than a comprehensive upgrade. As such, there is no requirement for this assessment to be undertaken as part of the current works.

In addition, the existing ramps are subject to significant constraints, notably the presence of a high-pressure Southern Gas Networks gas main beneath the structures. Changing the ramp arrangement would involve substantial redesign and further approvals, as well as potentially extensive utility works. This would considerably increase both the cost and duration of the scheme.

The decision to undertake these works was made in recognition that a longer-term solution for managing access across the A3290 and the railway may be required in the future. The current works will enable the route to remain safe and available for continued use while longer-term options are investigated and discussed with relevant third-party landowners and infrastructure operators.