Huge thanks to Expedition Engineering Ltd and National Infrastructure Commission Design Group Anthony Dewar of Network Rail, for inviting me to see the AVA Bridge Prototype footbridge last week. It's a prime example of how refinement and prototyping can deliver long-life, efficient structures. This is exactly what's needed in a sector with extensive, long-term projects that demand minimal maintenance and adaptable designs. As Prof. Bent Flyvbjerg highlights in "How Big Things Get Done," upfront design investment can drastically reduce overall delivery time and in this case future maintenance costs too. The multidisciplinary team behind AVA has expertly managed risks and streamlined the process and designed a long term durable structure that meets modern standards. Special thanks to Eva MacNamara, Clotilde Robin Chris Wise and the team including Phil Webb from Walker Construction UK Ltd, HAWKINS BROWN LIMITED MCNEALY BROWN GROUP LIMITED @ARX and Professor Sadie Morgan OBE who opened the bridge. They've created a winner, but it requires a substantial order to optimise costs and really find the efficiencies that the industry needs. Isn't it time we prioritised whole-life costs not just short term capital challenges? The industry has discussed this for decades. Here is the opportunity to combine bulk buying with innovation. I encourage HS2 (High Speed Two) Ltd, Huw Edwards (he/him) BEng CEng MICE MCIHT RPP MAPM FPWI to go and visit the prototype. #AVAfootbridge #infrastructure #design #construction #wholelifecycleost #procurement #innovation https://lnkd.in/eTGmWMra
Thanks for sharing Kay Hughes. Gutted I couldn't make any of the dates.
Director at Expedition Engineering Ltd - Bridge Engineering Lead - Net Zero Bridge group member
8moThank you Kay for your visit and your positive comments! I can’t agree more with you!