Stockport Interchange Bridgescape

Stockport Interchange is a major transport and regeneration project in Stockport town centre, combining a new bus interchange with residential development and a two-acre elevated park above. The bridgescape forms the pedestrian structures that link the interchange, Viaduct Park and the wider town centre across the River Mersey and the surrounding road network.

The structures combine architecturally expressed steelwork with everyday pedestrian infrastructure, so appearance, durability and maintenance all carry equal weight with strength and stability. Design considerations include pedestrian-induced vibration and comfort criteria, articulation and bearing arrangements, drainage and long-term inspection access, and the durability requirements that apply to exposed structures over water. The site is constrained by the historic railway viaduct, the river, live highways and the operational interchange, so temporary works, lifting operations and construction sequencing shaped the permanent design.

Carl contributed to the structural engineering design and delivery of the bridgescape while employed at Renaissance Associates, working within the consultant design team.