Pods from Hulland Ward firm keep workers safe during bridge repairs
AN Ashbourne firm has been drafted in to install its unique devices on an historic bridge in Derby while it is undergoing repairs.
Hulland Ward-based company Securiscape supplied five Securipods, which are designed to prevent terrorist attacks, to protect workers overseeing the repairs to the Darley Abbey Mill bridge over the River Derwent.
The pods are moveable blocks which can withstand impact from motor vehicles which have already been used to protect the public at events including Derby Pride and Derby Feste.
They have also been seen across the country at events in London, Nottingham and Lancaster.
The devices were put in place at the entrance to the bridge at 6.30am on Friday, May 13, and are being used to stop pedestrians, cyclists and drivers from crossing the structure, which connects the Darley Abbey Mills with Old Lane, as it undergoes repairs.
The bridge was closed at short notice last week after Derby City Council announced that it was in a weak and dangerous condition following recent flooding, but no date has been given for when it will reopen.
Mark Stone, managing director of Securiscape, said: “The Securipods are designed so that they can withstand the impact from a 7.2 tonne truck driven deliberately at them, so although this is an alternative use for them, they will undoubtedly prove effective in stopping traffic.
“We all know how busy and wellused the Darley Abbey bridge is and what an inconvenience this must be to local residents.
“Although they make an effective barrier, the Securipods are very straightforward for our staff to remove, so hopefully they won’t have to be in place for longer than is truly necessary.”