Land & Water Wins Bishopsford Bridge

Land & Water has announced it has been appointed by Merton Council to build a new road bridge over the River Wandle in Mitcham. The new bridge will replace the previous structure, which had to be demolished due to safety reasons after it partially collapsed following heavy rainfall.

Land & Water was contracted by Merton Council to carry out the demolition in Spring 2020.

The replacement of the bridge is a complex task as the structure not only influences the river flow but has a range of utilities running through it. During the project, a temporary cofferdam to the north and south side if the bridge will be installed whilst work takes place underwater.

The new crossing along the A217 will be wider than the previous bridge to include a northbound segregated cycle lane and a wider shared pavement and cycle space. This new design has a single span as opposed to the three arches of the old bridge.

Construction Director at Land & Water Kevin Kirkland said: “We are looking forward to returning to Mitcham to build a new bridge at this key river crossing.

“It is a particularly challenging project because the bridge influences river flow and has a range of utilities running through its structure. We will be working closely with Merton Council to safely build a new bridge to replace the 200-year-old previous structure. The new bridge is designed both to meet the demands of today’s traffic and to encourage people to make more journeys by bike or on foot.

“Land and Water is committed to improving the environment around its engineering works.”

Land & Water’s ongoing environmental commitment has been reflected in its choice of specialist plant, which minimises noise. The riverbanks border Watermeads Nature reserve and the plans will help promote biodiversity in the river and on its banks.

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