The 290 linear metre long structure, which incorporates no less than twenty-nine spans, is constructed from precast reinforced concrete beams and trestles and is the only access for residents to and from Hayling Island and the UK mainland.

Below the deck more than three kilometres Sika Carbidur carbon fibre reinforcement plate strengthening was installed, on behalf of the client, Hampshire County Council, to enable the bridge to accommodate the 40-tonne vehicles now sanctioned on Britain’s road network.

Both refurbishment work phases were carried out during the summer periods at the specific request of ‘English Nature’ in order to avoid disturbing the region’s overwintering waders and wildfowl. During 2002, CRL successfully completed works on the west side of the bridge with the east side having just been completed.

In addition to strengthening, the multi-disciplined contract involved civils, lighting and electrical works. CRL widened the existing footways, from 1.5 metres to 2 metres making it possible to accommodate adjacent pedestrians and cycle lanes and constructing two observation decks on both sides of the structure. New parapet-railings were also installed both sides to a height of 1.4 metres to meet the latest safety regulations and additional lighting was put in to improve night-time visibility.

Because of the busy nature of the thoroughfare, some work phases were only permitted between 8pm and 7am, when single lane traffic was in operation. At all other times unrestricted two-way traffic was maintained, plus at least one footway. No work was allowed at all at week-ends after 2pm on the Saturday. As a result, work caused very little disruption. CRL’s Contract Manager, Neil Farley, commented “We understood the apprehension of people living on the island as to the effect the works would have on their daily travel arrangements, but we have maintained a good relationship with everyone and kept inconvenience to a minimum”.