City Connect 2

Project overview

Our client’s aspirations for the City Connect 2 project was to improve the cycle lane facilities around the city to provide a Cycle Super-Highway fully integrated with the existing highway system. The intent was to improve signal-controlled junctions for vehicular and cycle traffic as well as improve the pedestrian corridors by realigning junctions to provide safer spaces for all road and footpath users.

Prior to commencement we met with the Bradford Council team to understand their aspiration for the scheme. Maintaining programme whilst not compromising on quality and budget requirements was key to their vision for the scheme. We used this knowledge to set and monitor key KPI’s for the scheme, reporting back to the client on our progress during regular contractor meetings.

Works comprised the construction of a two-way segregated cycle track along one side of the arterial road. This required modifications to an existing signal controlled junction with construction of a corridor for cyclists and a new junction and cycle crossing, also signal controlled. Space was provided within the highway for the cycle track by narrowing the lanes and footways.

The main works involved the removal of existing kerbs and laying new kerbing to define the new layout, adjusting the drainage system by repositioning highway gullies, and reconstruction or resurfacing of carriageway, footway and cycle track pavements.

Associated with the road works was traffic signal installations, street lighting, signage, street furniture and soft landscaping. The works also required statutory service diversions their apparatus and equipment, and electrical disconnection and reconnections.

Traffic management & stakeholder engagement

One of the key challenges was the dense vehicular and pedestrian traffic along the route. This required finely balanced NRSWA compliant traffic management and assessment plans to be implemented throughout the programme with vehicular and DDA compliant pedestrian corridors securely fenced off and segregated from the works. Close consultation with all local stakeholders including residents, commercial and retail businesses was key to the successful delivery of the scheme. Valuable feedback from this consultation process influenced our programming and work sequences designed to maintain the safety of all affected parties in proximity to the work areas. We developed a Stakeholder Management Plan from which the locally sourced Liaison Officer was able to maintain daily communication with all parties along the route to ensure they were kept informed about progress and that any queries or concerns were dealt with.

Early contractor involvement

An essential part of our collaborative approach on the project was the contribution of our extensive experience of similar works. During the early part of the design process, we offered that experience in the form of a proposal to use the Safetrack coating on the cycleway. The range of highway maintenance products comprised surface treatments, including high friction surfacing, skid resistant coloured surfacing and cold plastic line striping. It is designed to reduce the need for routine maintenance and maximise their service life providing better value for money for our client.