Key services provided

• Concrete repairs
• Joint replacement
• Resurfacing
• Drainage works
• Bearing replacement

Opening in 1968, Cleethorpes Road Overbridge comprises 17 twin concrete spans supported on concrete piers. During an initial inspection undertaken, considerable decay and dilapidation to the bridge was discovered, particularly to its elastomeric bridge bearings. Prior to the works, the bearings were constraining the movement of the bridge, it was therefore deemed necessary for a refurbishment to be undertaken in order to expand the lifespan of the structure and prevent expensive ongoing maintenance issues.

Situated on the busy A180, over the main Grimsby to Cleethorpes railway line, the bridge is a valuable infrastructure asset to local communities and businesses, providing essential access to the seaside town of Cleethorpes and the Grimsby Docks. To ensure that the bridge remained open for the entirety of works, carefully planned contra flow traffic management arrangements were implemented on evenings, ensuring disruption to local residents and businesses was kept to an absolute minimum.

An alternative solution, which allowed for the submission of a competitive tender, VolkerLaser had the innovative idea of constructing reinforced concrete corbels stitched to the existing piers from which to jack the bridge. The corbels were designed to provide support to the jacking system to lift the deck during the bearing replacement operation, thus eliminating the need for any works at ground level.

VolkerLaser was able to find practical efficiencies by the repetitive nature of the innovative scheme which also offered significant time and cost savings. The client was able to divert these cost savings to provide further enhancement works to the structure, whilst still remaining below their original budget for the scheme.

The project showcased VolkerLaser’s structural capabilities, utilising in-house skills to deal with the corrosion of steel and repair through cathodic protection, carbon fibre wrapping, as well as structural repair and brick stitching techniques. Continual communication and problem solving between designers, contractors, client and consultants ensured the contract’s delivery within budget and time constraints.