TWO key footbridges at St Helens Causeway are being replaced — ensuring a popular access route to Bembridge is maintained.

A unique solution has been found to keep the route open to the north of Bembridge Harbour.

A new track-based technique is being used by Island Roads to replace the footbridges, which have deteriorated over time, revealing signs of corrosion and timber rot.

However, the work presented several challenges as the Causeway is so narrow that it is not practical to use traditional heavy lifting gear to install the replacement bridges.

Also, both the IW Council and Island Roads were keen to limit any closures for walkers using this well-liked route while the work was underway.

The solution will see the new bridge decks arrive in one section where they will be 'skated' along the narrow causeway and into position using a system of steel tracks and rollers.

The replacement bridges will be made of a composite material to ensure they are suitable for the marine environment, are long-lasting and require minimal maintenance.

The old bridges will be dismantled and removed from the site.

The project was devised by Island Roads, working with Shanklin-based MMC Diving and London-based bridge specialist LifeSpan Structures, as well as the IW Council's rights of way team. It also required special consent from the Marine Management Organisation (MMO).

Jo Huett, project manager with Island Roads’ structures team, said: "Our contractors have used a similar system of steel beams and rollers to move heavy structures elsewhere in the country, but we think this will be the first time it has been done on the Island, certainly as part of a bridge replacement.

"It is unusual, but the Island does have many unique locations and it is our job to find the best solution for each challenge."

The project is due to start on September 10, and last for up to three weeks.

Island Roads' staff will host a presentation for the parish council and residents who are interested in hearing more about the scheme, on Wednesday, August 29, between 7pm and 8pm at The Pavilion, St Helens.

The project has been timed to be undertaken outside the main holiday season but also to comply with the MMO licence which states work must be completed by October.