Buckbarrow Bridge Replacement

Descriptions

The existing Buckbarrow Bridge is a two-span structure with the superstructure consisting of two equal spans of 8.75m. The bridge carried the U4064 County Road over Buckbarrow Beck (Non-main river). A load assessment of the bridge was carried out in May 2022, which identified significant failings in the original load assessment which was undertaken in 2000. Following this, an Interim Measures Feasibility report was produced which identified the need for a 3-tonne weight limit and a fortnightly inspection regime. During the course of these fortnightly inspections the deterioration of the bridge began to accelerate, and a decision was made to close the bridge on August 30th, 2023, to safeguard the public. A partial demolition of the existing structure has been commissioned by Cumberland Council and is expected to be concluded in advance of this contract commencing. The bridge deck superstructure is to be demolished by the demolition contract, the substructures (central pier, abutment pad foundations, wing walls / training walls) will be retained and demolished as part of this contract. The successful contractor will be responsible for the detailed design, AiP and Technical Approval Authority (TAA) sign-off of the replacement structure and associated elements including parapets, scour protection and surfacing, demolition of the remaining substructure elements and construction of the new structure. Following completion of this scheme the U4064 will be reopened to highway traffic. This project is to be let as a construction contract with Contractor designed elements.