University of Northampton appoints VolkerFitzpatrick as infrastructure contractor

VolkerFitzpatrick, has been appointed by the University of Northampton to deliver the infrastructure development of the new Waterside Campus.

Situated in the heart of the Northampton Waterside Enterprise Zone, the University of Northampton’s state-of-the-art campus will regenerate the brownfield area across the River Nene from Midsummer Meadow.

VolkerFitzpatrick will begin work on site in late July 2015. Their work includes the construction of two new bridges including one vehicle crossing spanning 46.5m and one pedestrian bridge that will link the town and campus together. Also part of the works will be the demolition of the existing power station façade, which has been left derelict since 1975.

Once complete, the road bridge will cross both the River Nene and the new riverside footpath to provide unimpeded access along the river. The bridge structure will be lifted into place over the river by two 1,000 tonne cranes before the road deck is installed. This part of the project is very distinctive as there is only a very small number of 1,000t cranes in the country.

The footbridge, which follows a distinct curved design, will also be lifted into place by two 500 tonne cranes either side of the river to ensure the area around Northampton Lock No. 1 Island is not disturbed.

University of Northampton’s Vice Chancellor, Nick Petford, commented: “We are delighted that VolkerFitzpatrick will be working with us to build the infrastructure of our new campus.  The £330m investment in this development offers opportunities for students to study in the heart of Northampton, building on our close links with the community and employers in the region. The improvements to the sustainable travel infrastructure we are developing will not only mean easy access to our new campus; but improved travel for the local community. The new pedestrian bridge will create a seamless link between Delapre Abbey and Northampton Town Centre.”

VolkerFitzpatrick contracts manager, Peter Van Arkadie said: “We are pleased to be working with the University of Northampton to deliver the infrastructure and utilities improvements that will help the university grow and improve the facilities available for students.

“These works require extensive coordination, especially around the construction of the bridges. Our teams have a proven track record in delivering this type of work to minimise disruption to the public and the environment.”

Midsummer Meadow car park will now be closed from for around 12 months to allow for the building of a bridge that will link the University of Northampton’s new Waterside Campus to the town centre.

The buildings of the Waterside Campus are being developed for the University of Northampton by main contractors Bowmer & Kirkland, who are working closely alongside VolkerFitzpatrick with regards to programming works to maximise cost and programme efficiencies.

The new University campus will open in time for the academic year 2018.