Phase 1 - Bridge and Access

This page is still working in progress

Phase one will look to replace the existing bridge onto the island. We need to improve accessibility for members but also need a good route on to the island for phase two which is the clubhouse replacement. We are aiming to progress the bridge phase during 2025/26 to allow phase two to be progressed in 2027.

The existing overhead bridge has served us well but is starting to look quite tired and has many accessibility issues.

The current solution to the accessibility issues is the floating bridge, which has also served us well but obviously is dependent on water heights and as we experience higher and lower levels it makes the ramps on and off the bridge quite steep. The width and weight holding ability are also issues for future plans.

What we are trying to achieve?

We would like a bridge that, among other things:

• Allows the island to be accessible to all, including those using wheelchairs or walking aids,
• Removes the height limit of the existing bridge,
• Is not dependent on water levels,
• Be wide enough and strong enough for us to get small plant equipment on and off the island to assist with phase 2 and any other needs we might have for it,
• Be wide enough for launching trolleys to be wheeled over,
• Stay in the down position most of the time with local residents having the ability to raise the bridge with ease.

Design

Alan has kindly gone through a lot of different bridge designs and outlined the following based on the brief and constraints we have.

The main features are:

• A lifting bridge powered by twin hydraulic cylinders and a 240v power pack which will be operated by a key isolated push button or remote control.
• A width between the concrete landings of 6.74m
• Sufficient bridge width and strength for small diggers/dumpers.
• A gate to prevent unauthorised access to the island.

Costs and fund raising

We still need to fully cost out the replacement. We have been kindly allocated some funding from the Horning Boat Show but we will need to raise more.

Next steps and actions

• Discuss the design with the Broads Authority Planning Team,
• Discuss the design with local residents,
• Complete an engineering assessment for the design,
• Obtain an assessment and price for the groundworks required,
• Obtain a price for the bridge itself and the other elements that go with it.

So much to do but good progress has been made so far.

Last updated 19:53 on 16 April 2025