design.criteria.for.footbridges

August 2004

DESIGN MANUAL FOR ROADS AND BRIDGES

VOLUME 2 HIGHWAY STRUCTURES:DESIGN(SUBSTRUCTURES)MATERIALS

SECTION 2 SPECIAL STRUCTURES

PART 8

BD 29/04

DESIGN CRITERIA FOR FOOTBRIDGES

SUMMARY

This Standard specifies design criteria for footbridgesfor use by pedestrians, cyclists and equestrians.

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BD 29/04

Design Criteria for Footbridges

Summary: This Standard specifies design criteria for footbridges for use by pedestrians,cyclists and equestrians.


THE HIGHWAYS AGENCY

SCOTTISH EXECUTIVE

WELSH ASSEMBLY GOVERNMENTLLYWODRAETH CYNULLIAD CYMRU

THE DEPARTMENT FOR REGIONAL DEVELOPMENTNORTHERN IRELAND

Volume 2 Section 2Part 8 BD 29/04

August 2004

REGISTRATION OF AMENDMENTS

Amend Page No Signature & Date of Amend Page No Signature & Date ofNo incorporation of No incorporation of

amendments amendments

Registration of Amendments

VOLUME 2 HIGHWAY STRUCTURES:DESIGN(SUBSTRUCTURES)MATERIALS

SECTION 2 SPECIAL STRUCTURES

PART 8

BD 29/04

DESIGN CRITERIA FOR FOOTBRIDGES

Contents

Chapter

1. Introduction

2. General Principles

3. Layout

4. Bridge Supports

5. Design Standards

6. Dimensional Standards

7. Parapets

8. Enclosed Footbridges and Clearance Gauge

9. Drainage

10. Walkway Surfaces

11. Lighting

12. Requirements for Combined Use by Pedestriansand Cyclists or Equestrians

13. References

14. Further Reading

15. Enquiries


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A

Chapter 1Introduction

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. INTRODUCTION

eneral

.1 This Standard deals mainly with geometric andser requirements. Other design aspects such astrength and properties of materials are covered byther documents within the DMRB Series.

.2 This Standard supersedes standard BD 29/87ncluding those aspects of Technical MemorandumE1/78 that relate to footbridges. It is to be used whereppropriate in conjunction with the relevant Parts ofS 5400 as implemented by the Overseeingrganisation except where otherwise specified by thistandard.

.3 The major changes to this document are asollows:

) Advice is given on considering all relevantfactors before deciding the form and layout of thefootbridge with a view to developing structuresthat encourage greater use and appreciation bythe public.

) The provisions for users with visual or mobilityimpairment have been incorporated into thegeneral provisions.

) Figures have been included to illustrate certainprovisions/advice.

) Definitions of terms have been provided.

mplementation

1.4 This standard shall be used forthwith on allfuture road schemes for the construction,implementation, improvement and maintenance oftrunk roads. It shall apply also to schemescurrently in preparation provided that, in theopinion of the Overseeing Organisation, this willnot result in significant additional expense or delayprogress. Design Organisations shall confirm itsapplication to particular schemes with theOverseeing Organisation.

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Definitions

1.5 For the definition of the general highway termsused in this Standard such as “highway types” (trunkroad, motorway etc) and “components of the highways”(carriageway, verge etc) refer to BS 6100; Subsection2.4.1.

1.6 Particular terms used in this standard are definedas follows:

Desire Line Line likely to be taken bypedestrians finding theshortest route between twopoints.

Goal orientated users Users making a journey toreach a specific destination.

Recreational users Users making a journey forleisure purposes.

Bridleway Public right of way open topedestrians, equestrians andcyclists.

Cyclist A pedal cyclist.

Footway Public right of way forpedestrian use only.

Cycle Lane A separate part of the footwayor footbridge for use by pedalcycles.

Mandatory Sections

1.7 Sections of this document, which form partof the standards that the Overseeing Organisationexpects in design, are highlighted by beingcontained in boxes. These are the sections withwhich the Design Organisation must comply, orhave agreed a suitable departure from standardwith the relevant Overseeing Organisation. Theremainder of the document contains advice andenlargement that is commended to designers fortheir consideration.

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Chapter 1Introduction

Scope

1.8 This Standard specifies non-structural criteria forthe design of footbridges for use by pedestrians, cyclistsand equestrians, in urban and rural areas, which may beconstructed of steel, aluminium alloy, reinforced orprestressed concrete, timber or other agreed materials.

1.9 Guidelines for the selection of other suitableforms of pedestrian crossings are outside the scope ofthis Standard. However, an Advice Note ‘Provisions forNon Motorised Users’ is under preparation by theEnvironment Group of the Highways Agency, and thiswill contain advice on the selection of appropriateNMU crossings.

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Chapter 2General Principles

2. GENERAL PRINCIPLES

General

2.1 This section describes the principles to befollowed when designing footbridges for new andimproved all-purpose trunk roads and motorways. Theunderlying principle is that the designer is given themaximum flexibility to develop footbridge designs thatwill meet the stated objectives of the OverseeingOrganisation.

2.2 The designer should balance the full range ofconsiderations such as modes of users, safety,aesthetics, environmental impact, cost, robustness,sustainability, buildability, operation and maintenance.Where there are options for alignment, layout andstructural form, the selection process should includedue consideration of these factors and any otherrelevant design constraint.

2.3 Footbridges can be more prone to variousforms of damage, misuse and vandalism by usersthan road bridges and this shall be taken intoaccount in the design and agreed with theOverseeing Organisation. See in particularparagraphs 2.4 and 8.1 below. Considerationshould be given by the Designer to assessing anyexisting patterns or likelihood of vandalism at thelocation. Relevant authorities such as the localpolice may be consulted if necessary.

2.4 Materials of high scrap value may not be suitablefor components vulnerable to removal. In locations witha high risk of unauthorised removal of parts,appropriate fixing details should be specified. Materialsvulnerable to fire damage, or to graffiti that is difficultto remove, may in some situations be inappropriate.

Provision of Footbridges

2.5 One of the purposes of footbridges is to facilitateand encourage walking and cycling whilst ensuringsafety for all road users. The type of crossing providedshould therefore be such as to encourage people to useit, taking account of likely pedestrian flows andmovements, and to encourage people to regard walkingor cycling as an acceptable mode of transport. Suchmatters should be considered in liaison with theOverseeing Organisation.

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2.6 Criteria to be considered in relation to use byvisually or mobility-impaired persons are incorporatedinto the following sections of this standard. Thesecriteria are of benefit to many types of users withimpaired mobility e.g. older people, people with prams,those with walking difficulties, heavily-laden shoppersetc.

2.7 It is important to determine the user groups of thebridge and their main purpose before deciding on itslocation. For goal-orientated use, location on the desireline is usually the highest priority. For recreational use,where possible, the new crossing should be located toadd value to the recreational route, e.g. by reducingexposure to traffic, introducing new views or creating anew circular route.

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Chapter 3Layout

3. LAYOUT

Location

3.1 Where a footbridge crosses a dualcarriageway carrying traffic with permitted speedsin excess of 48 km/h, both carriageways shall becrossed with a single span to avoid the need for asupport in the central reserve.

3.2 Where a separate footbridge is installedalongside a road bridge it should be detailed such as todeter attempts by persons to cross between. This maybe effected by making the gap between the structures atleast 2m wherever possible. Where this cannot beprovided, adequate alternative safety precautions shouldbe taken to minimise the risk of persons falling throughthe gap.

3.3 Where a separate footbridge is located close to ahighway bridge such that an errant vehicle could impactthe footbridge, consideration should be given by theDesigner to the provision of a road restraint system onthe approaches to the footbridge to contain appropriatevehicles within the highway.

3.4 The position of a footbridge should be chosen tomaximise the use of the topography so as to avoid orminimise the need for stairs and ramps. See Figure 1.

Figure 1 (ref para. 3.4)

3.5 Where a paved approach to the ramp or stairs ofa footbridge is located immediately adjacent to thecarriageway, it should, as far as practicable, be sited insuch a way that pedestrians walking towards the bridgeface oncoming traffic.

3.6 When a road, other than a motorway, is in cuttingor has other ground modelling which provide sideslopes on one or both sides, these should be used as far

as inc

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is practicable to provide access to the footbridge byorporating ramps in the side slopes. See Figure 2.

Figure 2 (ref para.3.6)

When the footbridge is in a cutting, particularlyen visible on the skyline, the cutting slope should ifssible extend at least up to deck level, using a falseting if necessary. In such situations, where thetpath is within the cutting, the steps and rampsuld be built into the face of the cutting.

ternatively, where the footpath is outside the cuttingoriginal natural ground level, the access to the deckuld be linked gradually into the footpath.

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Chapter 3Layout


3.8 Where a footbridge is installed to provide acrossing point for an existing rural footpath, anydiversion of the footpath should commence as far fromthe carriageway or crossing point as is practicable tominimise the total route length and maintain the desireline to the footbridge. This will make the path morepleasant for users, provide better accessibility and helpexploit the topography. However, rural footpathsfrequently follow field boundaries and historic rights ofway and care should be taken to avoid diversions thatcut directly across fields. Further guidance on thediversion of existing Rights of Way can be found inSection 3 of the Highways Agency draft document“Provision for Non Motorised Users” (Ref. 4).

3.9 In order to avoid discouraging walking, as far asis practicable, rural footpaths should not be diverted torun beside unscreened, busy roads.

Access

3.10 Access to the deck of a footbridge should beprovided by both ramps and stairs whereverpracticable, unless ramps alone would provide themost direct route to the deck, in which case thestairs may be omitted. Access by stairs aloneshould only be considered in exceptionalcircumstances in consultation with the OverseeingOrganisation and local access and disabilitygroups. Access shall be as short and direct aspracticable and follow the desire line of the mainpedestrian flow wherever possible, avoiding longdetours and unnecessary climbing.

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3.11 Ramp geometry should be as simple as ispractical, ideally following directly the desire line.Straight ramps with 180-degree turns or multiple levelsshould be avoided where possible. Spiral ramps can bevery effective, with larger radii generally being morevisually pleasing. However, the absence of landings inspiral ramps may lead to them being more difficult oreven impossible to negotiate for mobility-impairedusers, particularly wheelchair users. This should betaken into account in any decision on ramp layout.

3.12 Access to footbridges with combined cycleor equestrian use shall not be by stairs only.

3.13 Access stairs and ramps are often the mostnoticeable and environmentally damaging elements of apedestrian bridge and should be minimised wherepossible. Where practicable, steps and ramps should bebuilt into the contours of the landscape.

3.14 Pedestrians can be encouraged to use afootbridge, rather than crossing at grade, by theprovision of suitable pedestrian guardrails orappropriate planting which prevent them from crossingthe carriageway at road level.

3.15 Where access to a footbridge is such that amotor vehicle could be driven onto the structure,the access shall be restricted by spaced bollards ora system of staggered horizontal rails. The methodof restriction adopted shall be appropriate to itsenvironmental setting and shall allow the passageof wheelchairs and prams. Restrictions should beadequately marked in contrasting colour to reducethe risk of accidents, particularly to visuallyimpaired persons. Further information can beobtained from Sense and Accessibility (Ref. 5),and the Sustrans information sheet Access Controls(Ref. 6).

3.16 Existing hedgerows or tree lines should beutilized as effectively as possible to minimise the visualimpact of the steps and ramps. Where there are no treesin the area of the footbridge, landscaping with treesshould be considered, especially in flat country. SeeFigure 4. Any proposed planting should be discussed ifnecessary with a landscape architect and should takeinto account the effect on any future maintenanceliabilities for the structure. Planting schemes should bedesigned to avoid creating an enclosed area whichmight cause anxiety or a risk to users' personal security,or which may eventually cause trip or slip hazards tousers from root and branch growth or falling foliage andberries.

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Chapter 3Layout


3.17 Where possible, the lower sections of rampsshould be built on embankments that merge with theexisting contours. Where necessary, sufficient landshould be acquired to facilitate this. This detail will alsohelp to prevent the accumulation of rubbish ininaccessible or confined spaces beneath the ramp.

3.18 Where stairs are provided, they should also bedetailed such that the accumulation of rubbish ininaccessible or confined spaces beneath them isavoided.

3.19 There should be no concealed areas or recesseson the bridge that may cause bridge users to becomeconcerned about their personal security while crossing.

Appearance

3.20 The appearance of a footbridge should beappropriate for its site. It should be aestheticallypleasing, enhance the environment and encouragepeople to use the bridge. In urban areas considerationshould be given by the Designer to consulting the localplanning authority about the appearance and location.

3.21 Footbridges which may have a significantvisual impact on their local environment, or whichmay be situated in areas requiring specialconsideration such as Conservation Areas, Areas ofOutstanding Natural Beauty, Heritage sites etc, arepossible candidates for submission to theCommission for Architecture and the BuiltEnvironment (CABE). (The relevant bodies forScotland and Wales are the Royal Fine ArtsCommission for Scotland and the DesignCommission for Wales. In Northern Ireland pleaseconsult the Overseeing Organisation.) The need forconsultation with these bodies shall be discussed atan early stage with the Overseeing Organisation.The appearance of footbridges shall follow theadvice given in the HA publication “TheAppearance of Bridges and Other HighwayStructures” (Ref. 7) particularly chapter 12, andthe more general advice in BA 41 (DMRB 1.3.11)“The Design and Appearance of Bridges”.

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.22 The long spans and relatively light loads ofootbridges should be exploited and expressed in theirppearance. Where the guidance in BA 41 (DMRB.3.11) is being followed to produce a family of bridgeslong a road with an occasional substantially differentridge to provide variation and respond to theopography, it is often appropriate to use a footbridge ashe dramatic contrast. In this situation bolder,ontrasting forms of structure could be considered, withhe agreement of the TAA to give it drama. Whether theorm is simple or more complex it should be expressedith clarity, simplicity and elegance.

.23 The appearance of the footbridge, from alliewpoints, should be considered. The overallroportions of the bridge in elevation should beesigned to satisfy the road users or distant observer.he approaches, the handrailing, the detailing andlose-up effects should be designed to satisfy those whoill appreciate the bridge at close quarters and at a

lower pace. The highest standard of detailing isequired. See Figure 5.


.24 Visual clarity of the structure and all of itslements is essential. To this end the mounting of signsr signal equipment on the bridge structure or in itsmmediate environment, which create an impression oflutter, should be avoided. Where the provision ofantry signs in close proximity to a footbridge isnavoidable their interaction should be taken intoccount from the earliest stages of design. Because thelane of the sign is fixed relative to the road alignment,he line of the footbridge should follow this to avoidwkward clashes in angle.

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Chapter 4Bridge Supports

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4. BRIDGE SUPPORTS

4.1 Footbridge supports and foundations shallbe designed in accordance with the currentDepartmental requirements, in particular BD 37(DMRB 1.3.14) for loading and BD 60 (DMRB1.3.5) for collision loading.

4.2 Where footbridge sub-structures are sited onRailway or Waterway property, the appropriateAuthority’s requirements shall be satisfied.

4.3 For new bridges over existing roads, thefoundations shall be designed to cause theminimum delay to traffic during construction.


Chapter 5Design Standards

5. DESIGN STANDARDS

General

5.1 Steel and concrete footbridges shall bedesigned in accordance with the relevant Parts ofBS 5400 as implemented by DepartmentalStandards or where implemented, by the relevantEuropean Code.

5.2 The loading and loading effects to be usedfor the design of timber and aluminium footbridgesshall be those given in BD 37 (DMRB 1.3.14) andBD 60 (DMRB 1.3.5) for collision loading. Fortimber structures, where permissible stressmethods of design are used, the unfactorednominal values shall be applied.

5.3 Timber and aluminium footbridges shallgenerally comply with the requirements ofBS 5268 and BS 8118 respectively or whereimplemented, by the relevant European Code.

Vibration and Dynamic Response

5.4 Due consideration shall be given by theDesigner to the susceptibility of any footbridge tovibrations induced by pedestrians and by otherbridge users. Particular consideration shall begiven to the possibility that vandals maydeliberately attempt to excite the structure intomotion or that the passage of large numbers ofpeople may unintentionally do so. All footbridgesshall satisfy the vibration serviceabilityrequirements set out in BD 37 (DMRB 1.3.14)Appendix B5.5. Designers should be aware thatfootbridges having modes of oscillation withfrequencies less than 5Hz involving verticalmotions of the deck, and/or less than 1.5Hzinvolving horizontal motions of the deck, areparticularly susceptible to unacceptably largeoscillations caused by the passage of large groupsof people who may unconsciously or deliberatelysynchronise their walking patterns. Suchoscillations can present a hazard to pedestrians onthe structure and can risk damaging the structureitself. The possibility of the synchronisation of alarge number of people to vertical motions should

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particularly be considered. For any footbridgehaving modal frequencies below these limitsconsideration should be given by the Designer, inagreement with the Overseeing Organisation, toany requirements needed for carrying outappropriate dynamic testing in order to verify thatthe footbridge is suitable for entry into service, andto the provisions needed for the future installationif required of vibration reduction devices such asdampers. Criteria for accepting or rejecting adesign on the basis of its expected dynamics shallbe agreed with the Overseeing Organisation.

Minimum Thickness of Metal Sections

5.5 The minimum thickness of metal structuralelements shall be as follows:

Steel plates and sections other thanhollow sections 6mm

Steel hollow sections effectively sealedby welding 5mm

Aluminium alloy plates and sections 4mm

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DS

Chapter 6Dimensional Standards

6. DIMENSIONAL STANDAR

Clearances

6.1 The vertical clearances to the carriagewayshall be in accordance with Departmental StandardTD 27 (DMRB 6.1.2). The vertical and horizontalclearances to railways, canals and watercoursesshall be agreed with the Appropriate Authority. Forexample, the vertical and horizontal clearances torivers and watercourses in England shall be agreedwith the Environment Agency and the LandDrainage Authority.

6.2 The horizontal clearance from the edge ofthe carriageway to the bridge supports shall be aminimum of 4.5m unless otherwise agreed with theOverseeing Organisation. Where a clearance of4.5m or greater cannot be achieved, the bridgesupports shall be designed for collision loading toBD 60 (DMRB 1.3.5) and/or provided withappropriate road restraint systems.

Width

6.3 The clear width of the bridge, ramps andstairs, which shall be not less than 2m, shall bederived on the following basis to meet the peakpedestrian flows:

a) On the level or up to 1 in 20 gradient:300mm of width per 20 persons per minute.

b) On steps or ramps steeper than 1 in 20gradient: 300mm of width per 14 personsper minute.

c) For shared use with cyclists and equestriansthe requirements contained in Section 12shall also be complied with.

Gradients on Bridge Structure

6.4 Where the bridge structure incorporates aninclined deck, the slope requirements regardingplain ramps shall apply. However, the requirementsregarding spacing of landings on ramps may not bepractical across a deck structure and for this reasonthe deck slope should normally be no steeper than

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1 in 20. Where a deck is steeper than 1 in 20 therequirements regarding landings may be waivedacross the deck in agreement with the OverseeingOrganisation, having given due regard to the likelymobility levels of the bridge users in consultationwith the local access and disability groups.

6.5 Normally, gradients on the deck shall be nosteeper than those adopted for the access ramps.However, where the deck form incorporates a varyingslope (e.g. suspension, trafficked arch, stressed ribbonetc.), this requirement may be relaxed over localisedlengths of the deck by agreement with the OverseeingOrganisation, having given due regard to the likelymobility levels of the bridge users in consultation withthe local access and disability groups.

Stairs

6.6 Access stairs to footbridges shall complywith the dimensional and safety requirements ofBS 5395 for ‘public’ stairs, except as amendedbelow (see also Figure 6):

(a) The number of risers in a single flight shallnot be more than 13.

(b) A maximum of three successive flights maybe used in line, provided any adjacent flightsprovide a change in direction of at least 30degrees.

(c) The risers and treads of each step in a flightof stairs shall be uniform.

(d) Risers shall not be variable in height overtheir width.

(e) The riser shall be not more than 150mm.

(f) The tread width shall be not less than300mm and not greater than 350mm.

(g) Landing lengths shall be not less than 2mmeasured along the centre line of the stairs,or not less than the width of the stairs,whichever is the greater.

Further guidance can be obtained from InclusiveMobility (Ref. 8).

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Chapter 6Dimensional Standards

6.7 Completely open risers shall not be used.Stairs may, however, have perforated risers, inwhich case the openings shall meet the followingrequirements:

(a) The principal dimensions of the perforationshall not exceed 50mm.

(b) The ratio of the open area to the total area ofthe riser shall be not greater than 0.4.


6.8 Consideration should be given by the Designer tothe provision of solid infill panels to parapets and steprisers to protect the privacy of users and screening toprotect the privacy of neighbouring dwellings.

Ramps

Plain Ramps

6.9 Ramps for pedestrians, cyclists andequestrians shall not be steeper than 1 in 20 unlessagreed otherwise with the OverseeingOrganisation. For reasons of keeping the access onthe desire line, or to avoid long diversions, or toavoid damage to the environment, or for reasons oflimitations of space, a steeper ramp may be used,preferably no steeper than 1 in 15. However, noramp shall be steeper than 1 in 12.

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.10 Where the ramp is steeper than 1 in 20, for safetyeasons there should normally be a significant changeither of direction (30 deg or more) or in horizontallignment (e.g. offset by at least one ramp width), atast at every 3.5m rise of the ramp at an intermediatending.

.11 For ramps of gradient steeper than 1 in 20,uccessive sloping ramps in one line may be used ingreement with the Overseeing Organisation whereither no other arrangement of ramps is possible on theite or where it provides more encouragement toedestrians to use the footbridge by shortening thealking distance.

6.12 The footway, cycleway or equestrianapproaches to the footbridge or ramps shall not, forthe purpose of design to this Standard, be regardedas part of the footbridge structure.

piral and Curved Ramps

6.13 The effective gradient for spiral and curvedramps shall comply with the requirements for plainramps. The effective gradient and governingdimensions shall be measured 900mm from theedge of the walkway surface on the inside of thecurve. The minimum inside radius of walkwaysurfaces for curved and spiral ramps shall be 5.5m.

andings

6.14 For straight or spiral ramps of gradient 1 in20, landings shall be provided at equal intervals ofmaximum rise 2.5m. For gradients flatter than 1 in20, intermediate landings are not required.

6.15 For straight ramps of gradient steeper than1 in 20, horizontal landings shall be provided atintervals producing a rise of no more than 650mmbetween landings.

6.16 The length of a landing shall not be less than2m measured for straight ramps on the centrelineof the ramp or for spiral ramps circumferentially at900mm from the walkway edge on the inside of thecurve.

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Chapter 7Parapets

7. PARAPETS

7.1 All bridge spans, ramps and stairs shall beprovided with parapets. Parapets shall conform tothe current requirements of the OverseeingOrganisation given in the IRRRS or, whenimplemented, by EN1317 Part 6, and thefollowing:

(a) No upstand is required under the parapet onstairs.

(b) Where the parapet is provided with a bottomrail, the clearance from the rail to the noseof the stairs shall be not less than 50mm andnot greater than 100mm.

(c) The height of the parapet shall be measuredvertically above the line joining the noses ofthe stairs.

(d) For plain or spiral ramps the height of theupstand shall be not less than 25mm and notmore than 50mm.

(e) If glass is used it shall be laminated. Arigorous risk assessment shall be undertakenduring the selection of the glazing system. Itshall be demonstrated that the panels, ifdamaged in service, would retain sufficientpost fracture strength to remain in placewithin its fixings on the structure. Shardscreated during the shattering of the outerplies shall be large enough to be retained bythe laminating materials.

7.2 In areas of high prevailing winds or where afootbridge is designed for pedestrian use only, and theheadroom under the bridge is greater than 10m, theheight of the parapet may be increased to 1.30m withthe agreement of the Overseeing Organisation.Alternatively, an enclosed form of superstructureshould be considered – see Section 8.

7.3 Where structural members of a footbridge serveas a parapet, the height of the parapet, the infilling ofopen areas, the upstand at the edge of the walkwaysurface and the climbability of any part shall be inaccordance with requirements of 7.1. The climbabilityaspect requires particular attention where diagonalmembers at intermediate heights are employed.

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Handrails

7.4 Handrails shall be provided on both sides ofstairs, ramps and to decks with a gradient steeperthan 1 in 20. Handrails shall be designed inaccordance with BS 8300. Additional centralhandrails need only be provided where the widthof the stairs or ramps exceeds 3m. Handrails mayeither be fixed to the parapet or be self-standing.The height of the handrail shall be not less than900mm or more than 1000mm, measured verticallyabove the line joining the noses of the stairs orabove the line of the ramps as appropriate.

7.5 Handrails of circular section should preferablyhave a diameter of 40 – 50mm and if within anenclosure should have a clearance from any part of theframe of 50 – 60mm. Those of non-circular sectionshould preferably be 50mm wide by 38mm deep withrounded edges.

7.6 Handrails should be of a contrasting colour to theparapet to which it is attached, to aid those with visualimpairment. Further guidance on provision ofhandrailings can be found in Inclusive Mobility(Ref. 8).

7.7 The handrail and its fixings shall bedesigned to resist a uniformly distributed load of700 N/m applied separately in the horizontal andvertical directions in such a way that the system isdesigned for the most severe effects. This loadingis not additional to the loading for parapets.

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ES AND CLEARANCE

Chapter 8Enclosed Footbridges and Clearance Gauge

8. ENCLOSED FOOTBRIDGGAUGE

8.1 Where it is considered that there is a highrisk of objects being dropped or thrown from thefootbridge, or if there is a high risk of personsjumping onto the carriageway, consideration shallbe given by the Designer to full or partialenclosure of the crossing and its ramps or stairs,where these are over the highway. The need forsuch provision shall be agreed with the OverseeingOrganisation. The National Institute of MentalHealth can help identify problem areas, inpursuance of the National Suicide Strategy forEngland (Ref. 9). The design of an enclosure shallbe such that unauthorised access to the sides or theroof is prevented.

8.2 Consideration should be given by the Designer toenclosing footbridges when they are on sites exposed tovery adverse weather, e.g. high winds, or where they areof such a height above the road that pedestrians mayfeel insecure. The need for such provision shall beagreed with the Overseeing Organisation.

8.3 Where bridge enclosures are proposed,aerodynamic effects shall be considered. Windtunnel testing may be required and guidance isgiven in BD 49 (DMRB 1.3.3). Requirements shallbe agreed with the Overseeing Organisation.

8.4 Normally, fine unclimbable stainless steel meshinfill will be suitable as cladding to the enclosure framebut if solid panels are specified they should betransparent with provision made for cleaning.Depending on the particular site problems, highparapets with an inward canted top or full enclosuremay be required. Flush glazing outside the face of thestructure is an acceptable form for enclosure walls andarched mesh roofs are an acceptable form forpreventing roof access. Particular care in detailing isrequired to prevent access at the end of main spanswhere the bridge is over a cutting. Enclosures shallcomply with the parapet requirements of 7.1.

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8.5 The minimum headroom inside theenclosure shall be as follows:

Pedestrian only 2.3mPedestrian and Cyclist 2.4mEquestrian (dismounting provisionsin accordance with 12.14) 2.7mEquestrian (mounted) 3.7m

8.6 A vertical clearance envelope shall bemaintained at all locations on decks, stairs andramps whether open or enclosed appropriate to therespective user groups. No part of any structuralitems such as cable stays, enclosure frames etc, orany signing or other attachments, shall intrude intothe envelope. The clearance envelope shall beformed by a vertical line flush with the innermostsurface of each parapet, fence or handrail, and ahorizontal line complying with the heightrequirements given in 8.5. Where shared facilitiesexist, the height shall be the greatest height of therespective users.

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9. DRAINAGE

9.1 Provision shall be made for the drainage ofwater from the footbridge and its roof in the caseof enclosed footbridges. All walkway surfaces,steps, ramps and roof shall have adequate falls andsuitable detailing to allow water to run off.

9.2 With the exception of stair treads andperforated decks, water should not be allowed todischarge or spill from the structure on to thecarriageway or footpaths or to stain exposedsurfaces, but shall be carried away either to adrainage system or to a soakaway.

9.3 Positive drainage of bearing shelves shall beprovided beneath all deck movement joints.

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Chapter 9Drainage


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10. WALKWAY SURFACES

10.1 It is intended to establish an Approval/Registration System for materials and systems toprovide appropriate fitness for purpose forsurfacing for various user types, and until this is inplace the fitness for purpose of the combinedsubstrate/surfacing system for the respective usertype shall be agreed with the OverseeingOrganisation as an Aspect Not Covered byStandards. This should address such requirementsas corrosion resistance, resistance to slip,environmental deterioration, durability, andadditionally for equestrian use, noise attenuation.

10.2 On the traversed areas of decks, stairs andramps, the upper substrate surfaces shall bewaterproofed or otherwise protected againstdeterioration from surface contaminants, and thesurfacing shall be fit for purpose with respect tothe user type.

10.3 The minimum slip resistance of traversedareas shall be equivalent to a mean correctedPendulum Test Value of 45 units using a standardskid resistance pendulum test (prEN 13036-4).

10.4 The Designer, or for existing structures theMaintaining Agent, shall ensure that theMaintenance Manual for the structure states theinstallation date and minimum expected life fromthe surfacing or surfacing/waterproofing system.

10.5 Exposed gaps in walkway surfaces shall notbe in excess of 12mm in width. Cover plates togaps and joints shall be set flush with the top of thesurfacing to prevent tripping, and the uppersurfaces shall be suitably profiled or treated toreduce the likelihood of slippage.

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Chapter 10Walkway Surfaces


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11. LIGHTING

11.1 Footbridges shall be illuminated if they arelocated in areas where public lighting is providedand any lighting shall conform with therequirements of BS 5489: Part 6. Lighting systems,fixings and connections shall be robust and tamperproof.

11.2 Footbridges shall normally be illuminated bymeans of existing road or footway lightingaugmented, if necessary, by additional ground levelmounted lighting columns and lanterns. Where thisis impracticable, for instance in the case of acovered walkway, the footbridge shall beilluminated by parapet lighting fittings or lightingcolumns mounted on the bridge structure, usingfixings incorporated in the bridge design. Allcomponents of lighting systems, their fittings andconnections shall be robust and tamper proof.Parapet members shall not be used as cable ducts.

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Chapter 11Lighting


OMBINED USE BYLISTS OR

Chapter 12Requirements for Combined Use by Pedestrians and Cyclists or Equestrians

12. REQUIREMENTS FOR CPEDESTRIANS AND CYCEQUESTRIANS

12.1 For guidance on the layout and surfacing of NonMotorised User (NMU) provision to the footbridgeapproaches beyond the ramp and stair ends, seeHighways Agency draft Guidance Note “Provision forNon Motorised Users” (Ref. 4). For additionalinformation on tactile surfacing for combined usesituations see “Guidance on the use of tactile pavingsurfaces” (Ref. 12).

Footbridge Designed for Combined Use byPedestrians and Cyclists

12.2 Shared facilities may be segregated orunsegregated. The form of segregation on the structureas determined locally shall be compatible with thesegregation on the approaches. Where practical, andwhere agreed with the Overseeing Organisation,differing surface textures on segregated footways to aidvisually impaired users may be continued across thestructure.

12.3 Where the crossing is part of a pedestrianand cycle route, specific provision shall be made inaccordance with the guidance on shared use bycyclists and pedestrians contained in LocalTransport Note 2/86 (Ref. 10) or any currentupdate of that document. In Scotland, referenceshall be made to ‘Cycling by Design’ (Ref. 13).

12.4 The minimum widths for a footpath (orfootway) and a cycle track on a bridge and rampsshall be:

Pedestrian Cycle TotalPath Path Width

When segregatedby kerb not less 1.75m 1.75m 3.5mthan 50mm high

When segregatedby railings not 1.95m 1.95m 3.9mless than 900mmhigh

When segregatedby a white line, 1.5m 1.5m 3.0mcolour contrast orsurface texture

Unsegregated - - 2.0m

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12.5 On footbridges with cycle facilities theminimum height of a parapet shall be 1.40m.Design criteria and details for this parapet shall beas specified in 7.1 above, but where cyclists arephysically segregated from pedestrian facilities theincreased parapet height need only be provided onthe cycle track side of the bridge.

12.6 Whether ramps are segregated or not, for longramps, consideration should be given by the Designer toproviding chicane barriers to slow down mountedcyclists. This should be done in such a way that thepassage of perambulators and wheelchairs or mobilityand visually impaired users would not be hindered, andshould preferably be located on level landingsespecially where ramp slopes are steeper than 1 in 20.

Footbridge Designed for Combined Use byPedestrians and Equestrians

12.7 Where a crossing is designated forequestrian use, it shall be designed in accordancewith BD 37 (DMRB 1.3.14) and 7.1 above. Allcrossings catering for equestrians shall be designedfor combined pedestrian/equestrian use.

12.8 The minimum width of a footbridge forcombined pedestrian/equestrian use shall be 3.5m.

12.9 Where the crossing is not part of a designatedbridleway, consideration should be given by theDesigner to providing mounting/dismounting blocks onthe approaches to the bridge to enable horses to be ledacross.

12.10 In pursuance of 12.7 above, where agreed withthe Overseeing Organisation the use of solid infillpanels higher than the minimum requirement defined inthe documents referred to in 7.1 above may bepermitted in order to reduce the risk of horses beingstartled by traffic on the carriageway below. Dueaccount shall be taken of the effects of this onaesthetics and potential loss of utility to other users.

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Chapter 12Requirements for Combined Use by Pedestrians and Cyclists or Equestrians

12.11 Wherever possible the bridge should be alignedsuch that all user types can see the entire length of thestructure from the approaches and, where practical,suitably sized equestrian waiting areas should beprovided off the structure to allow users the option tocross when the deck is clear.

12.12 The upper face of cover plates to expansionjoints at deck level shall be provided with asuitable slip resistant coating.

12.13 Suitable signage shall be erected on theapproaches to the footbridge to warn other users ofthe potential presence of horses, requesting cycliststo take particular care or give way to equestrians.

12.14 Where the minimum headroom on thestructure is not designed for mounted use inaccordance with 8.5, mounting/dismounting blocksshall be provided and suitable signs erected toindicate that equestrians should dismount.

12.15 Where the deck is constructed of steel ortimber or any other material where the sound madewhile crossing the bridge could alarm the horses,warning notices to this effect shall be erected.Alternatively, suitable noise attenuation measures,for example special surfacing, may be agreed withthe Overseeing Organisation.

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Chapter 13References

13. REFERENCES

1. British Standards: BSI

BS 5400: Code of Practice for the Design of Steel,concrete and composite bridges

BS 6100: Subsection 2.4.1. Glossary of Building andCivil Engineering Terms, Highway Engineering

BS 5268: Structural use of timber

BS 8118: Structural use of aluminium

BS 5395: Part 1: Code of Practice for the Design ofStraight Stairs

BS 8300: Design of buildings and their Approaches tomeet the needs of disabled people - Code of Practice

BS 5489: Part 6: Lighting for bridges and elevatedroads

BS 5395: Part 1: Code of Practice for the Design ofStraight Stairs

2. Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB):TSO

BD 37 Loads for Highway Bridges (DMRB 1.3.14)

BD 60 The Design of Highway Bridges for VehicleCollision Loads (DMRB 1.3.5)

BD 74 Foundations (DMRB 2.1.8)

BD 30 Backfilled Retaining Walls and BridgeAbutments (DMRB 2.1.5)

BD 49 Design Rules for Aerodynamic Effects onBridges (DMRB 1.3.3)

BA 41 The Design and Appearance of Bridges (DMRB1.3.11)

TD 27 Cross Sections and Headroom (DMRB 6.1.2)

Technical Memorandum BE1/78

3. Manual of Contract Documents for HighwaysWorks (MCHW): TSO

Specification of Highways Works. (MCHW)

August 2004

4. Draft Guidance Note on Non-Motorised Users,Highways Agency

5. Sense and Accessibility, Countryside AgencyPublications, 2000

6. Sustrans Information Sheet FF22 – AccessControls, Sustrans 1998

7. The Appearance of Bridges and Other HighwayStructures, Highways Agency, 1996

8. Inclusive Mobility, Department for Transport,London, 2000

9. National Suicide Prevention Strategy,Department of Health, London 2002

10. Local Transport Note 2/86 – Shared use byCyclists and Pedestrians – August 1986, HMSO

11. Interim Requirements for Road Restraint Systems(IRRRS)

12. Guidance on the Use of Tactile Paving Surfaces.Department for Transport (1998)

13. Cycling by Design: A Consultation Paper –December 1999, Scottish Executive

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August 2004

14. FURTHER READING

Traffic Signs (Amendment) Regulations:1982. StatutoryInstrument 1982, No 1879 – December 1982, HMSO

DETR Traffic Advisory Leaflet 3/00; WalkingBibliography

DETR Traffic Advisory Leaflet 4/00; CyclingBibliography

Highways Report HR6 – Equestrian Use of Trunk RoadStructures, Transport Research Laboratory, 2002

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Chapter 14Further Reading


August 2004 15/1

15. ENQUIRIES

All technical enquiries or comments on this Standard should be sent in writing as appropriate to:

Chief Highway EngineerThe Highways AgencyRoom B153ARomney House43 Marsham Street G CLARKELondon SW1P 3HW Chief Highway Engineer

Chief Road EngineerScottish ExecutiveVictoria QuayEdinburgh J HOWISONEH6 6QQ Chief Road Engineer

Chief Highway EngineerTransport DirectorateWelsh Assembly GovernmentLlywodraeth Cynulliad CymruCrown Buildings M J A PARKERCardiff Chief Highway EngineerCF10 3NQ Transport Directorate

Director of EngineeringDepartment for Regional DevelopmentRoads ServiceClarence Court10-18 Adelaide Street G W ALLISTERBelfast BT2 8GB Director of Engineering

Chapter 15Enquiries

design.criteria.for.footbridges

Documents

design criteria

standard bd

design aspects

design standards6

standard deals

footbridgesfor use

greater use

combined use