Forge Island

A new pedestrian bridge at Forge Island in Rotherham has been introduced at the flagship development in the town centre.

The Forge Island development is part of Rotherham Council’s plan to regenerate the town. The main contractor for the project is Bowmer and Kirkland who asked Tubecon to supply and install the new bridge which will connect the town centre to the new family-friendly leisure destination.

The bridge fabrication was carried out off-site before being lowered into place by a crane and installed at the site. The 46 metre long steel structure weighs 86 tonnes and it was carefully installed in approximately one hour. Local residents watched the bridge being installed from across the town centre.

The design of the new pedestrian bridge takes its inspiration from the famous Bailey Bridge. Donald Bailey, was a civil engineer born in Rotherham and the design of the new streel truss bridge pays homage to Bailey and the engineering heritage of the town. The diamond truss steel design, which is synonymous with Bailey Bridges, will be illuminated night to enhance the experience and act as a gateway to everyone who visits Forge Island.

The new bridge is designed for pedestrians and cyclists and it crosses the River Don, providing direct access to the development which will feature a mix of eateries, alongside a cinema, a hotel, and a number of outdoor public spaces. This will include a stepped amphitheatre which is being built beside Rotherham Lock. The £47 million pound development scheme has a 100% let of all units and the team of companies involved in the project include Bowmer and Kirkland but also Muse, Arup, Helm Consulting, Arcadis, and Landscape Architecture

Forge Island is an important new waterfront destination for the town and the bridge is a key part of the project connecting it to the town of Rotherham.