Grade II status
As the bridge has listed status a specialist workforce and materials had to be used in the repairs, sympathetic to the existing structure and its surroundings.
Large stone blocks on the parapets on both sides of the bridge and in its recesses were replaced with local stone, sourced from Whitby, along with extensive pointing up of stonework.
A large cantilever scaffold system was used to move the heavy stones into place, and stainless-steel staples were attached to the rebuilt parapets at each level to provide extra strength and flexibility.
Traffic management
Protecting the bridge from further damage from traffic was an important consideration and new warning bollards have been sited at either end to help prevent vehicles from hitting the bridge. Traffic lights at both ends have been replaced by the council with a new, more energy-efficient traffic signal system.
Street lighting has also been replaced and white lining done to help guide traffic. The council also acted to limit problems during the closure and a temporary diversion was put in place for traffic travelling along the A166 route, diverting traffic on to the A1079. Temporary traffic lights and diversion signs had to be set up on the A1079 and on local routes through the villages. The council also worked with bus companies to ensure regular public and school transport.
Successful collaboration
Thanks to a smooth and successful engineering project, YORhub framework contractor Esh Construction was able to complete the work ahead of its planned 10-week schedule.
Steven Garrigan, divisional director at Esh Construction, said: “We understood the importance of completing the essential repairs as quickly as possible from the outset, owing to the significant impact on the local community.
Working collaboratively with our client, the site team and sub-contractors, we have been able to complete the works and reopen the bridge two weeks ahead of schedule."
A fantastic job!
Councillor Paul West, the council’s cabinet member for environment and transport, said: “I’m extremely pleased Esh Construction has been able to complete this work and reopen the bridge much earlier than planned.
We know the closure has caused a big inconvenience to many people, but we had no option, we simply couldn’t carry out these repairs without doing it.
I know people will be delighted to see it open again. Thank you for bearing with us.
This has been a major investment for the village and our contractors have done a fantastic job in returning the bridge back to its former glory and making it structurally sound for the future.”