A £3 million scheme to increase the height of safety barriers on the Humber Bridge has been approved.
The project, first proposed in 2019, followed a study into how bridge operators could better support people in emotional distress following a series of incidents.
Speaking at the time, Richard Hannigan, Chair of the Humber Bridge Board, said the new barriers would make the bridge “safer for everyone”.
He said: “Raising the barriers on the Humber Bridge walkways has been the subject of debate for a long time. However, finding a solution that doesn’t detrimentally impact on the bridge has always been the major challenge. To overcome this, the Board launched a feasibility study into increasing the height of the existing barriers in 2019 and we’re delighted to report that process has been a success.
“The proposed design will provide a sturdy but lightweight extension that will increase the parapets to 2.7m without impacting on the integrity or performance of the bridge. It will not detract from the spectacular views along the Humber Estuary that the bridge affords, and we believe it meets the criteria set down by Historic England as a Grade One listed structure.”
The design will see the barriers raised to 2.7 metres, or around nine feet, with the aim of improving safety without spoiling views across the estuary.
Specialist consultants are currently refining the design, after which a tender process will begin to appoint contractors.
It is understood the scheme will be funded through the Bridge Maintenance Fund.
(Image: Humber Bridge Board)
Part of the Gi Grimsby News team since 2020.