Client

Network Rail & North Lanarkshire Council

Value

£1.4m

THE PROJECT

UB285/022 Bellside Bridge carries the Glasgow Central to Edinburgh Waverly via Shotts line over the A73 Carlisle Road near Cleland in North Lanarkshire. It is reported to be the most frequently struck bridge in Scotland and since 2008/09 there have been more than 80 reported bridge strike incidents with associated delay. Following investment from North Lanarkshire Council, Network Rail tasked Story Contracting with the replacement of the bridge and associated works.

During a 54 hour disruptive blockade, works commenced by removing the track and ballast from the existing bridge. The old structure was then released from the abutments and removed using a SPMT, allowing for the new structure to be driven down the closed A73, spun into position and lowered into place. Backfilling works were then carried out and bottom ballast placed, allowing the track to be reinstated and tamping to take place. The line was successfully handed back on the Monday morning, with only 11 minutes to spare, showing how tight the programmed works were to carry out on the blockade.

The structure was lifted to more than 5.2m, removing its classification as a low bridge and the need for a signed diversion route through the town for high sided vehicles. The impact of bridge strikes on the local road network have been reduced and trains will be able to run more safely and reliably.

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

  • Construction of the new structure within the site compound.
  • Successfully replacing UB285/022 utilising a SPMT over a 54hr blockade.
  • Temporary works designed to allow access to carry works out safely.
  • Methodologies developed to enable works to take place in close proximity to the railway.

The project team utilised a slew ring on the SPMT which allowed the wingwalls to be cut tight to the new cill position and limited the stonework required after the installation. This was the first time that this had been carried out on a bridge within the UK by the appointed sub-contractor.

Prior to any works commencing we issued communications to all the residents in the surrounding area, detailing the works which would be carried out. This helped reduce the impact of our presence as the locals were aware of why we were there and how long for – an important factor as the road had to be closed permanently for a period of time and a diversion put in place.

The project was able to celebrate success and demonstrated best practice within the following areas:

  • Early consultation with the local council and closeresidents resulted in good community relations.
  • Weekly meetings with the client resulted in goodcommunication and understanding of the works.
  • Proactively managing unforeseen delays enablingus to maintain our original completion date.
  • Working efficiently with all associates involvedas a team throughout out the project.

54
hour possession to replace the underbridge

100
metres of track renewed

Bridge lifted
5.2 metres

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