PROJECT
SUMMARY
The 140 year old bridge in the centre of Muir of Ord carrying the A862 Great North Road over the Far North Railway Line had been under single-file traffic light control for many years.
The new railway bridge enables 2-way traffic to be restored with pedestrian footway on both sides and crosses the railway in two spans of composite construction with pre-stressed and in-situ reinforced concrete beams, parapets and deck. The two spans are supported by on reinforced concrete abutments, and an off centre, twin RC column, intermediate pier, with PU services incorporated within the new bridge deck.
THE DETAIL
The approach roads layout within the village was reconfigured with new junctions, traffic lights and anti-skid surfacing with new garden boundary walls and fencing for the adjacent properties. Close liaison and coordination with the Public Utility bodies was required to divert the services through the new structure.
Strong relationships were forged within the community which helped to ensure that disturbance and disruption were minimised throughout this potentially intrusive work.
Close cooperation with Network Rail was also necessary to plan both short-term ‘Possession’ and 24-hr weekend rail closure work, with Network Rail helpful and supportive throughout.
OUTCOME
Upon completion of the new bridge and approaches, the old bridge removed under overnight railway possessions, the area drainage was refurbished, and the pedestrian ways, fences, walls, signage and surfaced parking areas were renewed and reinstated.
