Much anticipated work to complete the installation of the newly constructed bridge over Kelsey Park lake is now underway, with the work envisaged to be completed in a matter of weeks.
The news follows earlier preparation work in Kelsey Park, including tree and coppicing, with the bridge being constructed ‘off site’ and sections of the bridge now being installed on the existing bridge abutments which minimises costs.
Investigatory survey work had concluded that abutments were able to be reused, with the revised design work not compromising the structural integrity of the bridge. The Flood Risk Activity Permit (FRAP) in place following de-silting work was successfully amended following discussion with the Environment Agency, with the requirement for a FRAP being a legal requirement, before the work commenced.
Councillor Will Rowlands, Executive Councillor for Environment said, “It is brilliant news that after all the planning and design work, including the re-design, that the next generation of park visitors will soon be able to stand on the new bridge and experience the magic of looking out over the lake and the magnificence of all Kelsey Park has to offer.”
Councillor Rowlands continued, “Thank you to all Kelsey Park visitors for their understanding and patience, including in this construction phase. Thank you as well to the Friends of Kelsey Park for their work. I know the Friends would love to hear from you if you were able to join them help look after this much loved park.”
Land and Water, the contractor who successfully completed desilting work last year, were also appointed to take the bridge work forward, with the work phased to ensure minimal disruption to park visitors.
Visitors to Kelsey Park are reminded that the footpaths near the bridge are closed because of the work, with advisory maps fixed at the entrances to the park to help and remind visitors of the temporary changes to the pathways. There is currently no access to the park from Wickham Way, with the shortest route to the café and play area being via the Manor Way park entrance.
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Editor’s note: A Flood Risk Activity Permit (FRAP) is a legal environmental permit required in England and Wales for work on or near main rivers, flood or sea defenses, or floodplains. Issued by the Environment Agency or Natural Resources Wales, it ensures activities such as construction or dredging do not increase flood risk.
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