George Leslie has started work to replace a sewer pipe bridge crossing the River Garnock. The existing structure is approaching the end of its service life and, if left unchecked, could risk sewage leaking into the river.
The original pipe is supported by structures on both banks of the river, which are starting to fail. New concrete pile caps will be built on either side to carry a replacement pipe bridge.
The new pipe bridge will be installed around 10 metres north of the existing one before being connected into the wider sewer network. Once complete, the old pipe will be removed. A temporary access road is also being built to allow construction to take place and will be removed when the work is finished.
The project will reach a series of key milestones, starting with the construction of the access road and site compound, followed by the build of the bridge supports. The final stage will see the new structure lifted into place using a 500-tonne mobile crane, typically used on major infrastructure projects such as wind turbine installations.
Early works were brought forward to address ground conditions on site. Drainage was installed in an area of soft ground to allow it to dry out ahead of construction of the temporary access road. Main construction works began on 5 May.
Project Manager Allan Ralston is excited to see the project progress and take shape. He said:
“This is a proper Civil Engineering project that will be visible once completed. Much of the time, we build and bury things, so this is a great opportunity to see the finished result.
The Site Agent has planned the project very well, so I’m looking forward to seeing how it all comes together and supporting delivery if needed to keep things on track.”
With work taking place beneath SPEN transmission lines, this changes how materials are brought onto site. Rather than using conventional tipper wagons, the team sourced a wagon that does not tip but instead pushes stone out through the rear of the trailer. The approach has been endorsed by Scottish Water on safety grounds.
Specialist subcontractors supporting the project include Miller Fabrications, manufacturing the bridge, EKSPAN, supplying and installing the bridge bearings, and Teknik GS, carrying out the piling works.
The project will take approximately 20 weeks to complete, with the new pipe bridge providing a more secure long-term replacement.
