The under-deck arch support solution that we see in the new bridge was not possible in the original design of the bridge because of the clear height requirement for sailboats, demanded by the Britsih Admiralty.
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| Britannia bridge after
rebuilding. Notice that the stone towers have been retained, and that
the tubular structure has been replaced by a double-deck arrangement
for trains and cars; the extra loads are carried to the towers just
above the water level by the
newly installed arches, fixed to the base of the original stone
towers. The under-deck arch support solution that we see in the new bridge was not possible in the original design of the bridge because of the clear height requirement for sailboats, demanded by the Britsih Admiralty. |
Admitting uncertainty in a very
public way:The towers were constructed high above the bridge-deck
level, to allow the installation of suspension chains, if necessary. |