The redevelopment of Clive Bridge in Hastings, New Zealand, has turned a narrow hazardous path into a safer pedestrian and cycle pathway for the local community.
A cycleway and pedestrian pathway along a notorious section of the state highway in Hastings, New Zealand, was once a narrow footpath without a barrier, which presented a danger for all road users. Thanks to an innovative and sustainable redevelopment project, the once dangerous Clive Bridge now has a new life that encourages active modes of transport and provides recreational benefits for the local community.
Though a main focus of the project was to improve rates of cycling and walking in Hawkes Bay, the environmental impact and potential benefits of the bridge redevelopment were also important considerations for the project stakeholders. Widening the footpath/cycleway of Clive Bridge in order to improve its functionality presented a challenge. Taking into account the concerns regarding the load limit, using concrete would have greatly increased the weight loading on the bridge, prompting council to look at various alternative materials to find a way to overcome the problem.
Tony Mills, Traffic Engineer for Hastings District Council explains, “The first alternative to concrete was timber, but that was not a solution due to ongoing maintenance costs, and also it’s slippery when wet. So we looked at plastic and recycled materials.”
After investigation, council determined Enduroplank™ from Replas would meet their requirements, addressing both the weight limit issue and their desire for sustainable construction options.
Enduroplank™ is an Australian-made lightweight and sturdy decking material made from recycled plastic that offers an ethical alternative to timber. Ideal for commercial applications, it is especially suitable for marine environments as it will not corrode even if submerged.
Enduroplank™ proved the perfect solution for creating a wider span without increasing the loading on the bridge. Its durability also makes it virtually maintenance-free, which means a cost-effective solution for council. And, as it was a state highway project, Enduroplank™ met council requirements and passed the rigorous evaluation process conducted by New Zealand Transport Authority (NZTA).
“After we determined that Enduroplank™ would work, we got together with our partners, NZTA and consultants MWH Global, to design a 150m bridge. After the design was complete we put the project out to tender, and that’s when [project management firm] Downer came on board,” said Mills.
Describing the finished project as a testament to the innovative thinking of the project team, Mills claims, “The smooth running of the construction phase of the project was important to keep Hawke's Bay moving, and is a tribute to Downer's management of the site.”
In addition to a wider span and more durable walking and cycling surface, safety along the pathway was significantly improved with the installation of LED lighting and safety rails. And, with the equivalent of 4.2 million plastic bags used to create the materials for the new walkway, users will not only enjoy a safer more serviceable bridge but can also feel good about the amount of plastic that has been saved from landfill.
The value of the revitalised Clive Bridge pedestrian and cycle pathway is a benefit to the whole community. “The final product just looks amazing, along with the handrails and the lighting, the colour matching with the Enduroplank™ is a big plus for the project. It has had excellent feedback from all the community,” said Mills.
CONTACT
Replas
P 1800 737 527
E sales@replas.com.au
W www.replas.com.au
PROJECT PARTICULARS
Client | City of Cambridge
Enduroplank™ Supply | Replas
Engineering Consultants | MWH Global
Project Management | Downer NZ
Website
Send Enquiry To Replas