- Rail & Aviation
Network Rail required demolition and reconstruction of two bridges on Park and Rink Roads, in Ryde on the Isle of Wight. The two structures are key transport routes for locals in the area.
These bridges were wrought-iron jack arch structures carrying vital services. Spanning the operational railway and a watercourse, Rink Road also had a gas main supporting local properties, so the project team had to plan to leave services safe and intact while work was carried out.
Once the agreement was in place to proceed, we completed necessary surveys. Due to work being on the Isle of Wight, we developed a strategy and delivery schedule to ensure all plant and equipment was available on site for when the project started. We had to import all of the precast concrete on a 450-ton mobile crane as well as other materials.
Before work could be carried out, the structures were closed to the public and traffic to allow the road surface to be stripped back.
Once work commenced, our team demolished and reconstructed both bridges during a seven-day blockade. Some challenges had to be overcome, as hidden voids were located with fractured abutments. However, working closely with Network Rail we devised a solution to install tie bars.
After the blockade, the road was reconstructed on both structures, with new lamb columns and street furnishings installed.
Both bridges were handed back to the client on schedule and to a high standard, allowing the operational railway to reopen and key transport routes for local residents and businesses to be restored.
As a result of these upgrades, the structures now have increased capacity and have an extended life.
