Design and Build - Arch Bridge, Elm Street

The timber arches support the bridge by working in compression while the steel chords on either end of the deck act in tension to maintain the overall form. This form spans the roadway without the need for an intermediate support. Timber behaves well in compression along its grain, and hence the arches are shaped out of block laminated timber to suit the form and the desire to make a statement. The composite steel plate and timber-slab deck ensures the bridge soffit provides a pleasant view for drivers waiting at the traffic lights below, as well as adding additional stiffness to the structure to improve the dynamic behaviour.

The main span deck cantilevers beyond the support with the steel top-plate acting as tension skin. This forms the landings which meet the ramps and stairs.