The Waterside Bridge stands as a landmark infrastructure project for Nottingham City Council, representing the first new crossing over the River Trent in over 65 years. This sustainable transport link, designed exclusively for pedestrians and cyclists, connects the Trent Basin regeneration area with Lady Bay. A critical component of this scheme involved extensive concrete works to facilitate safe access and provide high-quality public realm spaces for the local community.
The project highlights a successful collaboration between Shay Murtagh and Evans, showcasing how specialist providers can integrate different finishes to meet complex site requirements. Shay Murtagh manufactured the plain grey precast concrete units required for the main entrance access ramp. These units provide the robust structural foundation needed for the high volumes of foot and cycle traffic expected upon the bridge’s opening in 2026. Our extensive experience in precast concrete projects
ensured these components were delivered with precision to match the landing levels of the 161-tonne steel structure.
Complementing the structural ramp, Evans supplied the architectural precast elements for the seating amphitheatre and planters. These units featured a distinctive black acid-etched mix, creating a striking visual contrast against the grey structural concrete. The amphitheatre’s spiral design offers a functional community space that integrates with the surrounding riverside environment.
Balfour Beatty acted as the lead delivery partner for the Waterside Bridge, managing the installation of the 161-tonne structure and coordinating the project's concrete works through the SCAPE framework.
Achieving this level of detail required close coordination during the design phase, ensuring that the architectural and structural elements aligned perfectly on-site. The use of off-site manufacturing allowed the team to maintain strict quality standards while minimizing disruption to the sensitive riverside habitat. This partnership demonstrates the value of collective expertise in delivering modern infrastructure. By combining structural reliability with architectural flair, the new Waterside Bridge provides a vital link that supports Nottingham’s long-term connectivity and its commitment to greener travel options.
