Project Challenge

London Underground commissioned Lanes Group’s Rail Division to refurbish a pedestrian bridge over the Northern Line near Finchley Central Station in North London. The work to strip, repaint and repair the bridge was part of a five-year improvement programme. It was a complex project, with a demanding timescale. Key issues were highly restricted access, confined working space and the particular importance of the bridge as a local thoroughfare.

Project Overview

The bridge, close to Finchley Central Station, was built in 1872. It is made from riveted wrought iron and bolted steel plates and is capped with steel meshed anti-missile screens. Access for the work had to be gained via two residential cul-de-sacs.

Due to the structures close proximity to various schools, it was agreed with the local authority, Barnet Council, that the bulk of the remedial works would take place during the school summer holidays.

The work entailed stripping all layers of paint, which included lead paint, by shot blasting. The bridge was taken back to the original wrought iron state. Additional works included replacing corroded steel elements, engineering out water traps, and replacing non-slip flooring.

The project was undertaken with full encapsulation of the structure, which ensured very strict environmental and personal protection controls were achieved.

The team faced significant technical and logistical challenges, with less than 10 feet of the bank to work on, before it dropped away steeply to the track. The need to complete the work in a short time frame meant the team was also working up to 12 hours a day; while being sensitive to the needs of local residents.

Lanes Group Achievements

• The rail bridge refurbishment project was successfully completed to a high standard, with all challenges overcome

• Feedback from residents about how the project was managed was highly positive

Project Comment

“The collaboration with Lanes Rail Division on this project has been very successful. Despite the challenges, it has been run well and has gone very smoothly. This footbridge is used by thousands of people every day. It influences peoples’ perceptions of the London Underground and enhances the aesthetics of the built environment.”

Tube Lines Bridges and Structures Manager, Jide Oriogun