Tarmac install new bridge over the Cam

Abbey Chesterton Bridge successfully lifted into place as part of new sustainable transport scheme

A KEY milestone has been reached by Tarmac as part of their work in Cambridge to deliver new sustainable transport routes for pedestrians and cyclists across the historic university city.

The new 40m long Abbey Chesterton Bridge was successfully lifted over the river Cam and installed into position in a complex operation by the company’s specialist infrastructure team. All work was carried out safely in accordance with necessary social distancing measures and national construction site guidance.

The new bridge forms a central part of the new Chisholm Trail, which is a joint project between the Greater Cambridge Partnership and Cambridgeshire County Council to bring forward a new flagship cross-city sustainable transport scheme.

The trail is set to significantly enhance walking and cycling routes between the city’s two main railway stations, providing safer, mostly off-road and traffic-free routes that also link to green spaces and employment hubs including the Cambridge Science Park and Cambridge Biomedical Campus.

Andy Brown, director of Tarmac Infrastructure, said: ‘This major new piece of infrastructure being delivered as part of the Chisholm Trail will enhance sustainable travel across the city, and once completed is set to provide significant long-term health, well-being and economic benefits for local people in Cambridge.

‘We’re very proud of our team for having safely and skilfully lifted the new Abbey Chesterton Bridge into position to mark an important and exciting milestone on the project, and would like to pay particular thanks to local residents for their ongoing co-operation and support.’

Councillor Roger Hickford, chair of the Greater Cambridge Partnership and deputy leader of Cambridgeshire County Council, said: ‘To see the Abbey Chesterton Bridge over the river Cam is a really significant and exciting moment for councillors, cycling campaigners and the community who have long championed the Chisholm Trail.

‘There is more work still to be done before people will be able to use the bridge and the trail, but when it has been completed it will provide a first-class walking and cycling route that Cambridge can be proud of.’

The first phase of the Chisholm Trail, including the Abbey Chesterton Bridge, is set to be completed in autumn 2021.