Nan Tien Pedestrian Bridge

Scope of works

The works included:

• Earthworks. 
• Installation of bored piers. 
• Installation of temporary and permanent stormwater systems. 
• Installation of formwork, reinforcement and pour of pile caps, headstocks, decks, and stitch pours. 
• Supply and installation of anti-projectile screens. 
• Installation of waterproofing on the bridge deck. 
• Traffic management. 

Service protection

The works were conducted near overhead power lines and a gas pipeline that supplies approximately 60% of Sydney's demand. To ensure safety, the gas main's location was marked. Spotters, including representatives from the service owners, were present during any work near the gas main or under the power lines. This was particularly crucial during excavations for the bridge substructure and the installation of pile caps.

Innovative shoring

The northern position chosen for the batter intersected inconveniently with the northside pier placement. Excavation was necessary before installing bored piles, with the added complexity of the batter being connected to the Institute ground, requiring cautious handling to prevent foundation weakening. To minimise excavation, custom shoring with Abergeldie-designed steel beams and timber sleepers was implemented, serving as a protective barrier behind the bored piles and piers. This approach preserved the integrity of the surrounding earth, ensuring safety on the grounds of the institute. Once the pier was in place, the temporary shoring was removed, and the batter refilled, completing the project seamlessly.

Preserving indigenous flora species

During construction, the team worked proactively to implement measures to safeguard indigenous flora species, including mature Casuarinas estimated to be over 20 years old. Environmental protection measures were enforced on both the eastern and northern sides, utilising barricades to prevent any disturbance. To mitigate potential damage to median strip vegetation, construction techniques were selected that eliminated the need for scaffolding.

A spiritual and physical link between the Nan Tien Temple and Nan Tien Institute

The project gained significant public interest from start to finish and received extensive media coverage. In July 2018, an official opening ceremony was held for the bridge, with all involved parties and hundreds of community members including local government representatives in attendance. The completed bridge provides a spiritual and physical link between the Nan Tien Institute and the Nan Tien Temple.