Client

Cumbria County Council

Value

£1.25m

Location

Welton nr Dalston

Duration

12 months

The Project

The historic Grade II masonry arch bridge dating back to 1772 collapsed after Storm Desmond in December 2015. Story Contracting were awarded the design & build contract, which saw planning work commence in late 2016.

Early work included obtaining the necessary consents which included planning permission, consent to work in the watercourse and diversion of 11kv overhead electric cables.

In looking for the most practical but cost-effective design solution, it was also necessary to consider future resilience. The chosen solution was weathering steel beams and reinforced concrete deck, abutments and parapets which would be clad in masonry recovered from the old bridge. This attempts to maintain the authenticity of the original bridge whilst accommodating modern design standards.

View Gallery
View Gallery

The scope of the project was to design and implement the following works:

  • Provide a solution to replace the bridge and prevent further scour to the bridge substructure.
  • Develop a temporary works system to gain access to and protect the River Caldew which has SSSI designation.
  • Final design to be resilient to future flooding and in keeping with the rural landscape.
  • Access and construction methodology developed to accommodate narrow access routes surrounding the structure.
  • Demolition of remaining parts of the old bridge.
  • Installation of sheet piling scouring protection.
  • Installation of steel beams/deck
  • Masonry cladding
  • Carriageway reinstatement
  • Construction of reinforced concrete abutment

The design solution we adopted provided the most practical solution to the site due to access difficulties and working within and above this protected watercourse.

We worked closely with the local Parish Council and farming community to minimise the impact of the construction works. Regular updates were provided to inform and reassure residents. The works were completed on programme in November 2017.

This high profile project was delivered as part of the County Council Infrastructure recovery programme. Story Contracting obtained a very high quality score during the tender which demonstrated our experience in both bridge construction and collaborative working with a wide variety of stakeholders.

Through careful planning and organisation, the necessary approvals were granted and construction works progressed to programme without incident. The end product is of a high quality and has been well received by local residents.

Construction – Bell Bridge (Cumbria County Council)

Story’s approach to the re-construction of Bell Bridge was professional and showed that they have the necessary experience to undertake projects of this nature. Through the design and construction stages they worked with the IRP team to provide a quality and value for money solution. They supported the IRP team through stakeholder engagement issues resulting in a successful project that was safely delivered and within expected time, cost and quality measures.

Nick Raymond

Cumbria County Council

Find out how we can help you

To find out more about how we can help you deliver your project contact Gareth Jones on on 01228 590 444.

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