A new footbridge has been constructed over the Beverley Brook to replace one that was at risk of collapsing. The reconstruction of the bridge was driven by two imperatives. First, the bridge was in a poor state of repair. Both the concrete deck and the two steel girders supporting it were showing signs of decay, which could in due course have resulted in it being declared unsafe. Second, and more serious, this bridge forms an important final stage of the courses followed by the legendary Thames Hare & Hounds running club in their most important events. The width of the bridge – just over a metre – meant that only one runner could cross it at a time. This caused on occasion a significant bottleneck resulting in slower times, a breakdown in the normally polite behaviour of the club and, allegedly, occasional highly regrettable outbreaks of unsporting behaviour.
A brand new, wider bridge has been built on the existing foundations, thanks largely to the efforts of our local resident, David Jenkins. Project Manager for almost five years, David raised the required funds, largely from members of Thames, with valued contributions from The Wimbledon Foundation, Runthrough, the London Marathon Charitable Trust, Thomas’ Schools and the friends of WPCC. With Joe Ruston advising on engineering issues, they looked at various design options and different contractors. Approval had to be obtained from the Environmental Agency. Maydencroft was chosen as the specialist contractor with a simple design using both timber but also engineered recycled plastic. The finished bridge now contributes to the much improved brook, following major works to the water flow and the towpath.
The formal opening ceremony will take place on December 3rd, when the 131st Oxford v Cambridge cross-country race will finish on the bridge, following pooh-stick competitions. The bridge is named the BCB Bridge, recognising the members of Thames – Brasher, Chataway and Bannister - who trained on the Common prior to the breaking of the four minute mile record in 1954.