VolkerFitzpatrick invites children to view Ash Road Bridge
While working on a £19 million transformative infrastructure project on behalf of Guildford Borough Council, VolkerFitzpatrick invited local people and children from the local area to the construction site to find out about progress on the Ash Road Bridge.
In July, over 60 Scouts, Cubs and Beavers were invited on site to find out how the bridge is progressing. The project manager, Colin Bexley, personally talked to them about the installation of the bridge beams in May, the types of engineering equipment being used and how personal protection equipment (PPE) is needed on a construction site. The children had the opportunity to walk up the south embankment to see the new bridge, and the newly completed section of Foreman Road.
Malcolm Simpson from the 1st Ash Vale Scouts group, thanked VolkerFitzpatrick and said: “It was a great visit for all our young members. The accompanying adults were also very pleased to get the chance to see the project up close!”
Additionally, four students from Ash Manor School spent four days gaining work experience on-site. They underwent a risk assessment, received PPE, and learned about the project. After working with both construction and engineering teams, the students chose a preferred discipline to explore further.
Tom Hunt, Lead Councillor for Regeneration, Guildford Borough Council, said: “Not only are these visits brilliant opportunities for young people in Ash to get a glimpse of what the new bridge is going to look like, but it also gives them a chance to consider careers in the engineering and construction industries. Thanks to VolkerFitzpatrick for setting aside time and resources for these activities.”
These social value initiatives demonstrate VolkerFitzpatrick's commitment to giving back to local communities.
The Ash Road Bridge project is designed to alleviate traffic congestion, accommodate the growing housing developments in the area and allow the closure of a problematic level crossing. The work spans the new bridge, approach roads and junctions.
More information on the Ash Road Bridge project is available on the council’s website here.
