NGE is mobilizing its expertise to replace the footbridge crossing the Allier river in Cournon-d'Auvergne

Led by Clermont Auvergne Métropole, this project aims to construct a new structure that will ensure both the continuity of the Via Allier for active transportation and the crossing of the Allier River for the urban area's drinking water supply. More comfortable, more accessible, and better suited to daily use, the future footbridge will be a key link in the greenway.

The project, valued at €5,5 million including VAT, is being carried out by a group led by NGE GC, alongside GUINTOLI, NGE FONDATIONS, NGE TMF, Matière and ITC BE, under the project management of INGEROP.

Located in the immediate vicinity of the drinking water catchment areas of Clermont Auvergne Métropole, in a flood zone and within an area of ​​high ecological interest, the construction site presents particularly demanding constraints.

To address these challenges, NGE leverages the complementary expertise of several of its subsidiaries, with specific procedures for pollution prevention, flood risk management, and the preservation of natural environments. The Group's activities include civil engineering works, special foundations, river works, and the development of deconstruction methods.

The project has reached a major milestone today with the deconstruction of the old structure.

After the existing utility lines are removed, the concrete rack is cut into seven sections before being lifted out by crane. In total, seven sections, ranging from 8 to 22 meters in length and weighing between 20 and 51 tons each, will be moved. This exceptional operation requires the use of an LG 1750 crane equipped with a 105-meter boom, capable of lifting up to 750 tons.

This phase illustrates NGE's ability to design and implement technical solutions adapted to complex structures, in a constrained environment, while guaranteeing the safety of stakeholders and the preservation of natural environments.

The work will continue until summer 2026 with the complete deconstruction of the existing structure, the construction of access ramps and the installation of the final equipment for the new footbridge.

Key figures

• Cost of the operation: €5,53 million including VAT
• Duration of works: 12 month
• Footbridge length: 70 m
• 7 sections lifted by crane, weighing up to 50,9 tonnes
• LG 1750 Crane – Maximum capacity: 750 tonnes
• 1.925 hours of professional integration

According to Pascal BAYARD, Deputy Regional Director: "This deconstruction phase is a key moment in the project. It illustrates the expertise of our teams and their ability to operate in a complex environment to create a sustainable structure that serves the local area."