Description
Originally completed in 1870 the single span wrought iron bridge represented some of the best cast iron details of the Victorian period. The existing riveted arch girders span from masonry abutments springing off stone spring blocks.
Sustainable were commissioned to carry out a Principal Inspection, Load Assessment which led to strengthening proposals and finally design of strengthening measures.
We determined from the outset the architecture of the bridge would remain unchanged whilst strengthened to accommodate current day highway loading. We determined the best option to be installation of new steel girders placed intermediate to the existing. The new girders were laser cut to match the shape of the existing with new spring points constructed between the existing. Parapets were assessed on the basis of risk and it was concluded didn’t require strengthening.
The completed project was presented at the London Bridges Engineering Group Annual General Meeting 2013 and was commended for its preservation of its historic nature. The Group recommended the project for the forthcoming Institution of Structural Engineers Heritage Award.
