CRAGG VALE - Parrock Clough

Parrock Clough: footbridge.

Ray, Frank H and Andrew picked the wettest of days to re-build the footbridge across Parrock Clough (see map). However, because warning signs about the work had been put in place, a CALVAG delivery had been booked and we had concerns about the state of the old bridge, it was a day for waterproof clothing and maximum efficiency.

1. Site of old footbridge. 

2. Original footbridge

This is the old footbridge. 

Length is ~4.0 m and it is supported by two stringers having section 100 mm x 200 mm.The cross-treads (somewhat uneven) have a span of ~0.75 m

The bridge has been much patched with additional bracing and temporary supports. It is negotiable with care but many walkers seem to be opting for a stream-level crossing . . . despite the chance of a wet foot!

Pictures 3 and 4 show some of the structural problems.

3. Decay and fracturing of one stringer.

4.Deep decay at the end
of the other stringer.

Once we started dismantling the bridge, serious structural problems became more evident. Mmm! Quite scary!

5. Extensive decay in stringers.

6. More of the same!

Here's the progress with the new bridge:

7. Cross-treads being drilled,
spaced and nailed.

The two stringers (section 100 mm x 200 mm) have been replaced by three stringers (section 75 mm x 175 mm). This gives better support and should eliminate 'bounce'.

The original stone piers and brackets were in very good condition and have been re-used.

Under-rails have been fixed in place between the outer stringers to improve stability and to help with the levelling of the central stringer.

The old cross-treads of 0.75 m span have been replaced by cross-treads with 0.9 m span. Edge trims will be added.

It will be a wider, stable bridge with protected edges.

                        

Some time later - here it is!

8. Mmm! Nice job!

8. Level, secure and stable.

The day continued to be wet and the stream level rose. Fortunately, Wellingtons were the footwear of choice and (amazingly) no-one fell into the water. Just as we had finished . . . the rain petered-out!

There are still a couple of tasks. A new marker post is needed and the footbridge might benefit from some staples in the cross-treads to improve grip.

This new bridge was funded by the late Gerald Hardwick (1934 - 2020) - a keen Rambler who loved being out in the countryside. This is the second problem on the Cragg Vale riverside walk that Gerald's legacy has funded. We hope to organize a Ramblers' walk next year as a 'thank you' to Gerald.