Upgrading Two Bridges In Rouken Glen Park

Earlier this year, M.A.M. Contracting was appointed to carry out essential upgrades on two pedestrian bridges within the scenic grounds of Rouken Glen Park. Commissioned by East Renfrewshire Council (ERC), the works aimed to restore both structures to a safe and durable standard while protecting the surrounding natural environment and minimising disruption to park users.

The project focused on two bridge sites: the Former Pumping Station Bridge (ERC Reference RGP17) and the locally cherished ‘Bella’s Bridge’ (ERC Reference RGP19). These upgrades form part of a wider improvement effort to preserve park infrastructure and enhance the visitor experience in one of the area’s most popular recreational spaces.

Primary objectives

The key objective of the Rouken Glen Park bridge upgrade project was to safely dismantle and replace ageing structures with minimal environmental impact and full public safety. Specific aims included:

- Safe removal and responsible disposal of existing bridge components and waste materials.

- Construction of suitable working platforms over the watercourses to contain debris and prevent contamination.

- Provision of secure site fencing, signage and communication strategies to maintain public safety during works.

- Installation of welfare facilities, compound setup, and secure storage solutions.

- Completion of a Delap survey before and after construction to record and restore affected paths and grounds.

- Restoration of all surrounding access routes to match original finishes.

Challenges faced

Operating within a busy public park presented several logistical and environmental challenges. The park remained open throughout the works, requiring a high level of coordination with East Renfrewshire Council to safely close off specific areas while maintaining general access.

Existing paths varied between tarmac, unmade trails and stepped or sloped ground, which limited vehicular access and required tailored logistics planning. To mitigate disruption, secure Heras fencing and approved signage were installed in advance of worksite closures to inform local residents, and East Renfrewshire Council provided regular public updates via social media channels.

The proximity of watercourses also required stringent environmental protection measures, including the formation of enclosed scaffolding platforms with boarding, upstands and sheeting to prevent debris from entering the water.

How M.A.M Contracting completed the works

To ensure that we delivered the high standards that M.A.M Contracting has become synonymous with, we drew upon our years of experience.

Site setup and protection

Secure site compounds and parking areas were established following agreement with the client and contract administrator. All welfare facilities were installed on-site, with final compound locations chosen for minimal impact on park operations and ecology.

Bridge removal and waste handling

Both the Former Pumping Station Bridge and ‘Bella’s Bridge’ were carefully dismantled using controlled methods to prevent disruption to the watercourse below. All waste was transported off-site using lockable, secure skips. Timber and other materials were disposed of via licensed waste carriers, with waste transfer certification submitted in full compliance with project requirements.

Environmental safeguarding

Working platforms were formed around each bridge with fully enclosed scaffolding. Plastic sheeting and close-boarded edges ensured that no construction debris entered the water, preserving the park’s delicate ecosystem.

Pathway surveys and reinstatement

Before construction began, a Delap survey of surrounding pathways and access routes was completed to document baseline conditions. On completion, these areas were reinstated to match existing finishes, ensuring the park’s aesthetic and functional integrity remained intact.

Public safety and communication

Access routes were temporarily closed and clearly signed. Heras fencing was used to secure all work zones, particularly during non-working hours and weekends. East Renfrewshire Council coordinated public messaging to keep visitors informed and ensure alternative routes were available throughout the duration of the works.

The benefits

The successful upgrade of the Former Pumping Station Bridge and ‘Bella’s Bridge’ ensures continued safe access through Rouken Glen Park’s picturesque woodland and watercourse areas. With durable new structures and comprehensive environmental safeguards in place, the project reflects M.A.M Contracting’s commitment to delivering high-quality infrastructure, community value, and sustainable construction practices in high-traffic public spaces.

Discover more about M.A.M Contracting's bridge contruction services.