Appointed by the Woodland Trust, Design ID undertook the challenge of constructing a new bridge across the River Faughan and enhancing the existing riverside walking routes and linkages. The 24-meter span timber footbridge, situated within an Ancient Woodland Forest over a freshwater river, confronted significant challenges, including a flood-prone environment and various ecological constraints.
Our goal was to design a durable, low-maintenance structure that integrates harmoniously with the natural surroundings. Timber, chosen for its sustainability and aesthetic compatibility with the woodland setting, offered a natural look that steel couldn't achieve. Sustainability was central to the project, with timber footbridge and trail surfaces designed for minimal environmental impact and longevity. Using Glulam amassed an overall reduction of approximately 27 tonnes of embodied carbon, when compared to a similar steel structure, equating to an estimated carbon reduction of 43% across stages A-C of the structure life cycle. The innovative glulam construction, resulted in one of the largest single-span timber structures in Ireland, marking a significant engineering achievement.
The project began with a comprehensive Concept Design phase, where our technical team conducted thorough assessments and prepared all necessary submissions for Planning Approval. This included a Design & Access Statement, a Flood Risk Assessment (FRA), and a Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP). The FRA was crucial given the bridge's location within the Q100 floodplain. We engaged in robust negotiations with the planning department and the Department for Infrastructure Rivers Planning Advisory Unit to secure approval, overcoming the policy restriction of constructing non-essential infrastructure within a floodplain.
Our expertise extended beyond the main span footbridge. We achieved Schedule 6 approval for various small-scale structures over minor watercourses feeding into the River Faughan, applying pragmatic judgment to streamline the approval process without unnecessary flow calculations.
The Faughan Valley Footbridge enhances the site's educational value with paths through ancient woodland, which comprises just 0.04% of Northern Ireland's land cover. This educates visitors about forestry and conservation, aligning with the Woodland Trust's mission and promoting environmental stewardship. The bridge and surrounding infrastructure increase public amenities and improve access to recreational activities, navigating challenging topography and streams to showcase the river valley's beauty and provide an immersive visitor experience. Connecting to adjacent cycleway infrastructure, the project promotes sustainable transport and community well-being.
The Faughan Valley Footbridge exemplifies Design ID's commitment to looking for the best fit rather than the easy, most travelled route, integrating sustainable materials, innovative engineering, and community-focused design.
Client: Woodland Trust
