Month: April 2026

C. Jackson & Sons Retains FORS Bronze Accreditation Following Successful Audit

C. Jackson & Sons (Bedford) Ltd is proud to announce that we have once again achieved FORS Bronze Accreditation, reaffirming our commitment to safe, efficient and responsible fleet operations across all areas of our business.

The Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS) is a nationally recognised accreditation that promotes best practice in safety, sustainability and operational management. Retaining Bronze status demonstrates that our systems, processes and day‑to‑day practices continue to meet the rigorous standards expected of professional fleet operators.

C. Jackson & Sons (Bedford) Ltd also hold FORS Silver accreditation, further demonstrating our commitment to exceeding industry standards in safety, environmental performance and operational excellence.

A Team Effort Driven by High Standards

This year’s successful audit reflects the dedication and professionalism of our fleet and compliance team.

• Our team of highly skilled drivers play a crucial role, consistently demonstrating the safe driving behaviours, vehicle care and professionalism that FORS expects.
• Fleet Manager, Pete Jackson, continues to lead the operational side of our transport activities with precision and a strong focus on safety.
• Jamie Jackson oversees the administrative and compliance requirements that underpin our fleet management systems, ensuring every process is documented, monitored and continuously improved.

Their combined efforts ensure that our fleet not only meets industry standards but actively sets a benchmark for others.

 Expert Support and Continuous Improvement

 We would also like to extend our thanks to Amanda Duffy, Duffy Logistics Ltd, whose expertise and guidance as our external consultant continues to strengthen our compliance framework. Her support has been invaluable in helping us maintain a robust, audit‑ready operation.

 Why FORS Matters to Us

Achieving FORS Bronze is more than a certificate — it reflects our wider commitment to:

• Safer roads for our workforce and the public
• Reduced environmental impact through responsible fleet management
• Efficient operations that support our clients and project partners
• Continuous improvement across all areas of transport and logistics

As our business continues to grow, maintaining high standards in fleet safety and compliance remains central to how we operate.

 Looking Ahead

 This accreditation marks another positive milestone for the company and reinforces our long‑standing reputation for professionalism across all aspects of our work. We remain committed to building on this success as we continue to invest in our people, our fleet and our operational systems.

 Well done to everyone involved — a great achievement for the whole team.

C. Jackson & Sons has begun the controlled dismantling of the Queens Foot Bridge in Kempston, following its emergency closure last year after serious structural decay was discovered in the timber arches.

The 40‑year‑old pedestrian and cycle bridge — a key link between Queens Park and Kempston — was closed in August 2025 when intrusive inspections revealed extensive internal rot within the laminated Ekki hardwood beams. With the structural integrity compromised beyond repair, Bedford Borough Council approved full removal ahead of a future replacement structure.

A Carefully Planned Demolition

Working on behalf of Breheny Civil Engineering, our team is carrying out the dismantling in a series of planned crane lifts, removing the bridge in manageable sections to maintain stability throughout the process.

The works include:

• Sectional removal of the timber deck and glulam arches using a 300‑tonne mobile crane
• Precision cutting using reciprocating saws, chainsaws and controlled hot‑works procedures
• Daily lifting of access equipment, including a tracked boom lift positioned on the south bank
• Safe transport of bridge sections via articulated flatbed vehicles & RoRo waste skips

A rescue boat is in place throughout the operation, and all work at height is carried out from MEWPs under strict weather‑dependent controls.

Minimising Disruption to the Community

Footpaths on both sides of the river have been temporarily closed, with diversions in place to maintain safe pedestrian routes. Parking suspensions along Ford End Road allow access for heavy plant and crane operations.

Working hours follow local restrictions and flexibility built in to accommodate weather conditions — particularly wind speeds, which directly affect crane operations.

Commitment to Safety and Environmental Protection

The project is being delivered under a comprehensive Demolition Risk Assessment and Method Statement, covering:

• Fall‑prevention measures
• MEWP operation and rescue procedures
• Manual handling controls
• Dust and noise mitigation
• Hot‑works permitting
• Spill prevention and environmental safeguards

No asbestos was identified within the structure, and all waste timber and metalwork is being removed from site in controlled loads for appropriate disposal or recycling.

A Significant Local Landmark

Queens Foot Bridge has served the community since 1984, providing a well‑used walking and cycling route across the River Great Ouse. While its removal marks the end of an era, it also clears the way for a safer, modern replacement to reconnect the two neighbourhoods.

C. Jackson & Sons is proud to support Breheny Civil Engineering and Bedford Borough Council in delivering this important phase of the project safely, efficiently and with minimal disruption to residents.