Cleethorpes Road Overbridge is a 17 span concrete structure situated onthe busy A180 over the main Grimsby to Cleethorpes railway line. The bridgeprovides essential access to both the seaside town of Cleethorpes and GrimsbyDocks and is a valuable infrastructure asset to local communities andbusinesses.

A recent inspection of the bridge uncovered considerable decay anddilapidation, particularly to its bearings. It was therefore decided that arefurbishment was required in order to extend the lifespan of the structure.

The refurbishment will include the replacement of 512 no. bearings. VolkerLaseris responsible for the design and installation of temporary works and has proposeda complex propping and jacking system. VolkerLaser will be working closely withengineering consultancy Cass Hayward and North East Lincolnshire’s appointedconsultants; Cofely GDF Suez and Parsons Brinckerhoff. As the structure carriestraffic over the railway line, VolkerLaser will also be working in closeliaison with Network Rail. Other works to be undertaken include concreterepairs and coatings, the replacement of bridge joints, resurfacing works and anew bridge drainage system.

Work on site has already begun and is expected to be completed by June2015. To ensure the bridge remains open during the entirety of works, carefullyplanned traffic management arrangements have been implemented in order toensure disruption to local residents and businesses is kept to an absoluteminimum.

Keith Barrow, Director of Major Projects at VolkerLaser commented: “Thiscontract builds upon our successful history of major bridge refurbishment. We takegreat pride in being entrusted to safely refurbish this important civilengineering structure and are eager to return the bridge to a condition inwhich it can continue to perform for many years to come.”