Old Tram Bridge
Old Tram Bridge
EKSPAN collaborated with Harrisons engineering, to successfully replace a 200-year-old Tram Bridge with a new £6.6m infrastructure across the River Ribble in Preston.
EKSPAN designed, fabricated an installed the temporary works to accept the new structure allowing the installation of bridge span. Once the span was in place the new bearings could be fully installed. The replacement of the existing tram bridge was essential in providing a connection between the north and south sides of the river, joining Avenham Park with Penwortham in South Ribble.
What we delivered
Our scope of work included:
- Design of uplift bearings to carry the varied load requirements of the structure.
- Manufacture of temporary supports and new bearings.
- Temporary works design allowed the structure to be lined and levelled for new mechanical bearings to be put in place.
- Installation of temporary works which permitted the phased installation of the new bridge.
Project Challenges
The project faced a significant challenge in designing and building complicated temporary supports, to ensure that each piece of the bridge could be secured into place carefully and safely. Alongside, the design and installation of uplift bearings to accommodate the varied load requirements of the bridge. Plus the challenges which arose from the unpredictable weather, with the risk of flooding and rising of the river.
Highlights
Our main highlight of the entire project was our seamless collaboration with Harrisons engineering, and their trust in placing the four bridge sections onto our temporary works, allowing the bridge to be levelled for new mechanical bearings installation.
Project Impact
The replacement of the historic tram bridge was critical in providing a clear connection between the north and south sides of the River Ribble, to ensure a safe and secure path which could be used for future generations to come. A closed off bridge now boasts a pedestrian and cycle link, allowing this 200 year old bridge’s legacy to live on. We’re proud to have played a key part in preserving a bridge which is an integral part of Lancashire’s history.
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