Hampton Bridge Lifted into Place Over River Avon

Major Milestone Achieved

The construction of the Hampton Bridge in Evesham has reached a significant milestone with the successful lifting of the main structure into place over the River Avon. This bridge, which spans a total length of 210 metres, is designed to enhance active travel routes in Worcestershire, connecting Hampton with Evesham town centre.

Bridge Specifications

The bridge features a main river span measuring 86.5 metres and is constructed to be 3.5 metres wide. Designed by Moxon Architects in collaboration with Burroughs and COWI, it incorporates innovative design elements such as paired V piers on the western bank and H-section columns on the eastern viaduct. The structure is made from unpainted weathering steel, which not only reduces maintenance needs but also minimises its impact on the floodplain.

Construction Details

The lifting operation required a specialist crane with a capacity of 1550 tonnes. During this operation, the River Avon was temporarily closed to ensure safety. The bridge consists of three sections, each measuring over 90 metres in total, and the two leg sections weigh around 100 tonnes each. These sections were delivered to the site in August, with the entire lifting process being a carefully coordinated effort.

Project Timeline and Budget

The total cost of the Hampton Bridge project is estimated at £17.4 million, funded through a combination of developer contributions, Active Travel England funding, and Worcestershire County Council's own resources. The project was initially approved by the county council's cabinet in 2024, and construction is expected to be completed by summer 2027.

Enhancing Connectivity

This new bridge aims to improve transport links across the River Avon, encouraging more residents to opt for walking and cycling over car travel. Currently, the existing route requires users to navigate a 650-metre distance along Pershore Road and over Abbey Road bridge, which is not ideal due to traffic and narrow paths. The Hampton Bridge will provide a more direct and safer route for pedestrians and cyclists, significantly enhancing connectivity in the area.

Future Developments

In addition to the bridge itself, a 123.5-metre approach viaduct, raised causeway, drainage systems, and landscaping are also in progress as part of the overall development. As the project continues, it is anticipated that the new bridge will play a vital role in promoting sustainable transport options in Evesham and the surrounding areas.