Glazing system encloses bridge yet maintains accessibility
Forming part of a major refurbishment of the Victorian footbridge at Chester railway station, the HSW-G frameless sliding wall system from DORMA has delivered the highest standards of aesthetics, style and usability whilst protecting passengers and preserving the heritage of this 122 year old bridge.
A historically important feature of Chester railway station, the wrought iron footbridge spans platforms 3 and 4 at Chester station on the Crewe to Chester line and provides pedestrian access to these platforms on the west side and platform 7 on the east side. Delivered by Network Rail with main contractor J. Murphy and Sons, the footbridge has been refurbished to enhance both its appearance, making it easier to maintain and to bring it up to accessibility standards.
The work by main contractor for client Network Rail combined structural repairs with traditional conservation work and finishes. In order to create a protected space along the bridge, Network Rail required a glazing system which could not only enclose the bridge but could be easily opened.
‘The client wanted to introduce an element of environmental control without permanently enclosing the bridge so that it can then be opened in the future for any maintenance requirements,’ Vince Morris, Special Projects for DORMA. ‘Our HSW-G frameless glass sliding wall system was the ideal solution and met the client’s requirements.’
The two 16 panel DORMA HSW-G sliding glass wall systems were used to form two continuous, transparent surfaces – with side frame elements completely absent. Top and bottom glazing rails provide the system with stability whilst containing the auxiliary functional components. Whenever required, the DORMA HSW-G panels can slide away to provide access to both sides of the glass.
With the refurbishment of this historic footbridge now complete, the sliding glass wall system from DORMA has played a key role in protecting pedestrians from the elements and will make the bridge easier to maintain, ensuring its future longevity.
