Clifton Suspension Bridge set for major ironwork revamp

Bristol’s world-famous bridge is set to undergo a ‘one in a lifetime’ refurbishment to safeguard its historic ironwork.Work starts next month on a two-year project to upgrade the landmark’s 180-year-old suspension chains and install a new lighting system.Engineering firm Taziker has been awarded the contract to paint the Grade I listed crossing’s wrought iron chains, as well as its parapet girder latticework and stanchions.According to the Clifton Suspension Bridge Trust, the bridge’s custodians, the project will keep the ironwork in “top condition” for another 20-25 years.Painting the ironwork will involve removing the existing lighting, and the Trust will then install a new sustainable lighting system designed by engineering consultancy Hoare Lee.The ironwork will be painted by hand to ensure even coverage using tools designed specifically for its chains.The bridge, which spans the Avon Gorge and links Bristol with Somerset, was designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel and opened in 1864.It still retains a large number of its original chain links that were manufactured for another of Brunel’s bridges, the Hungerford Footbridge in London which opened in 1845.When the footbridge was demolished to make way for the Charing Cross Railway Bridge, the engineer John Hawkshaw recycled the parts to complete Bristol’s suspension bridge.Bridgemaster Trish Johnson said: “This is a once-in-a-lifetime project that will safeguard important original features designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, as well as updating the bridge’s illuminations to ensure we are reaching the highest standards for sustainability whilst minimising light pollution.”The project has been entirely funded through the collection of bridge tolls and is being managed by bridge engineering consultants COWI.The new lighting system will allow the Trust to illuminate the bridge in different colours in celebration of key local or national events.The upgrade aims to complete by 2025.Like what you’ve read?