Town Quay Bridge
Ecological, low energy, performing lighting solution to encourage cyclists and preserve local wildlife
The 90m long steel cable-stay Town Quay Bridge was constructed over the River Teign as part of an initiative by Devon County Council to create a cycle network.
It links Newton Abbot and Kingsteignton, enabling commuters and cyclists to avoid the very busy Newton Road that has no separate footpaths or dedicated space for cyclists.
This meant that most local people were deterred from making everyday journeys on foot or by bike despite the two communities being only just over a mile apart. This resulted in high levels of car use and congestion.
Lighting to protect bats
The lighting scheme for this strategic gateway had to fulfil the required lighting levels while accentuating the bridge’s structure.
Customer
Application(s)
As the area is regularly used for feeding bats, we consulted an ecologist who recommended a solution to prevent any light spilling onto the river.
We developed an LED handrail solution to achieve all objectives.
To conform to environmental constraints and to reduce energy consumption, the LED handrails are controlled by a pre-programmed photoelectric cell so that the units only operate from dusk to midnight and then from 6:30AM to daylight.
The LED handrail was manufactured using grade 316 stainless steel to help minimise maintenance costs.
Energy efficient LED handrail
In total, 41 LED handrail sections were mounted at 1.4m along one side of the bridge.
Each section is fitted with three 1W white LEDs at an angle to prevent any light-spill onto the river.
Two waterproof Acqueo LED floodlights accentuate the bridge’s iconic support mast at night.
Mission accomplished
The council has received a lot of positive comments from the local community.
The new route has transformed conditions for cyclists and walkers in the area and has proved effective in tackling congestion by providing an alternative to travelling by car.
The tourism potential of the route, with its links to the growing National Cycle Network, looks set to boost the local economy too.
3000 cycle trips were made on the route in the first three weeks after opening.
Since the official opening of the Town Quay Bridge, we have received many positive comments. The new route is being well used by both cyclists and pedestrians, all proving that the LED Handrail has been a very effective solution.