Improving access to a world-class venue

Newbury Racecourse Bridge

Newbury Racecourse has undergone a revival to secure their share of highly sought-after race fixtures and retain their reputation as a world-class international horse-racing venue. This included a landmark redevelopment deal to provide 1,500 homes around the venue. Key to this revival, and integral to the residential development, was the provision of improved access to the racecourse requiring a new bridge over nearby railway lines. Stantec made this happen.

The bridge had to span the existing two-track railway and an additional two tracks for sidings. To meet this requirement, Stantec designed a 25-metre span integral bridge with precast, pre-stressed beams that were installed over several nights, minimising disruption to rail services. It was also necessary to provide a subway over a live gas main and a major retaining wall adjacent to an existing high-class gym on the southern approach to the bridge.

Our team ensured that several disciplines worked together seamlessly and successfully negotiated technical matters with Network Rail and West Berkshire Council. Following the appointment of the contractor, Stantec was also asked to provide site support throughout the construction phase.