Garforth's Beacon Style Footbridge Installed
The company is carrying out the ‘Access for All’ scheme at Garforth Station on behalf of Network Rail Earlier this year the steel lift shafts and steel staircases were installed for the ‘Beacon’ style footbridge in preparation for the main deck to be lifted into place using a 350-tonne crane.
The footbridge, the first of its kind to be installed by Network Rail, gets its nickname from the striking design of its two lift shafts. It’s been developed and designed by AmcoGiffen’s design and engineering, steel fabrication and construction teams in close collaboration with its supply partners and Network Rail who created the concept.
This latest milestone follows a crucial temporary work solution designed by AmcoGiffen to lift the existing 190-year-old cast iron arched footbridge within a limited possession time on the busy Leeds to Hull route. The original structure was fragile, and the time restrictions meant that traditional methods would not be viable. The design team proposed a temporary support frame to cradle the structure during the lift. The temporary works design was a success, and the historically significant structure was transported to Bredgar & Wormshill Light Railway for restoration.
The AmcoGiffen steel fabrication team has been building the main elements of lift shafts, staircases and main deck for the new structure at their base in Barnsley since October 2023. Due to its size, the main deck was transported to the site under police escort.
Chris Wright, Senior Sponsor for Network Rail’s North & East route, said: “This is a major milestone for Garforth’s ‘Beacon’ bridge project and brings easy, step-free access closer to reality for the station’s passengers.
“This bridge is a UK first and we have, naturally, run into some challenges along the way, but our teams have worked hard to overcome those. The installation of the bridge deck is a huge achievement for the project and one I am very proud of.
“We want to thank passengers and local residents for their continued patience while work progresses.”
Peter Laws, Framework director for AmcoGiffen said “This milestone is a significant achievement for our team, our supply chain and our partners at Network Rail. The successful installation of the main span is the final major structural element bringing us closer to completion.
“The unique ‘Beacon’ design with its dual aspect lifts, will undoubtedly transform the station, creating improved accessibility and a better experience for passengers and we look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have for the community of Garforth.”
Once complete the structure will transform accessibility for passengers and boast a modern glazed finish and aesthetic lighting details that will create an illuminated ‘Beacon’ effect at night.
