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Wednesday 25 April 2018

Design of new Alma Bridge released >>> "the proposal isn’t the prettiest footbridge but the engineer is literally up against a hard place, ie a steep sided cliff face"

Proposals for a new bridge at the mouth of the River Sid went on display last week:
Futures Forum: Design of new Alma Bridge released
Futures Forum: Beach Management Plan: on BBC Spotlight tonight and at Kennaway House Thursday 19th April

It caused a fair amount of controversy:
Futures Forum: "The Ham needs something rather more special: the proposed new Alma Bridge is functional but undistinctive"
Futures Forum: The 'monstrous inappropriateness' of the new Alma Bridge design >>> >>> 'The position cries out for delicate curves not flint like hard slabs.'

Here are the drawings:




It is understood that the images are still preliminary and subject to further development.

The County Council is as yet unable to issue the technical drawings as these are still  in development. When the drawings have been completed and submitted for planning they can be viewed on the DCC planning portal by the general public. 

Nevertheless, a correspondent who was at the exhibition has sent in photographs of the techinical drawings on display:




As the correspondent says:

Having attended the presentation I can see the proposal isn’t the prettiest footbridge but the engineer is literally up against a hard place, ie a steep sided cliff face.  

There are therefore clear practical limitations not least disabled access and the funding. The  main engineering concern is securing the eastern abutment to the cliffs, while providing a safe landing. Compared with the recommended incline of 1 in 12, the 1 in 6 slope is apparently no steeper than the current Hangar Path. As it is a steep climb I suggested he introduces a rest-point integrated into the top of the eastern buttress from where visitors can enjoy a splendid view! 

A further element which requires attention is the parapet and the handrails which is the point where users come into contact with the bridge and I would suggest simplification and elegant detailing is required.

The final submission will be placed here:
Planning | Devon County Council
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