A programme of vital protection work on structures across the Island is nearing completion, helping to safeguard bridges and retaining walls from scour – recognised as one of the leading causes of bridge failures in the world.
Scour is the erosion of soil, gravel, sand and other masonry caused by flowing water around bridge foundations, walls and culverts. If left untreated it can weaken the foundations and other parts of these structures over time and, in the most serious cases, cause them to collapse.
The programme included work at Muggleton Bridge near Brighstone, Gunville Bridge, Kingates Lane Bridge near Whitwell, St George’s Way Bridge in Newport, the wall above Lukley Brook in Carisbrooke and upcoming work to the wall beside Brookside Road in Freshwater.
The work was tailored to each site and included maintenance of bridge supports and walls as well as erosion protection to riverbanks, all using environmentally sensitive construction methods.
Luke Ward, Projects Manager at Island Roads said: “This programme of proactive maintenance is vitally important to protect the Island’s highway infrastructure. Scour is one of the leading causes of bridge failure worldwide, so identifying and proactively addressing issues early helps ensure our structures remain safe and resilient for the future.”
The works have also provided an excellent opportunity to develop emerging engineering talent. Scott Beasley, a placement student studying Civil Engineering at the University of Surrey has played a key role in the development and delivery of these schemes working under the supervision of Island Roads’ structures team.
Scott said: “This has been a hugely valuable experience for my degree. I’ve experienced first-hand the practical aspects of bridge and retaining wall maintenance from inspections and conditions assessments through to developing repair solutions and overseeing construction activities on site.”
As all locations were designated ‘main rivers’, the works were carried out under Environment Agency permits or exemptions. Construction activities were carefully planned to avoid impacting on the local environment, with specialist ecological support provided throughout the programme. Fish, eels, ducks and moorhens were observed at various sites and work practices adapted where necessary to ensure any wildlife were protected.
Island Roads also worked hard to minimise disruption for residents and road users with temporary traffic lights only being used during off-peak hours where possible. Pedestrian and cycle access was also maintained at Muggleton Bridge to keep the popular round-the Island-cycle route open.
The programme is being delivered in partnership with DDGA Ltd and environmental consultants E3S Ltd. It forms part of Island Roads ongoing programme of inspections and preventative maintenance to keep the Island’s highway infrastructure safe and resilient for years to come.
The final scheme is due to start in Freshwater on 21 August for two weeks.