Video has appeared displaying the cautious removal of a 25-tonne gantry framework from the Prince of Wales Bridge.
The operation, carried out by National Highways, Amey, and Denholm Industrial Services, involved the 34-metre-wide structure being carefully descended 40 metres onto a ship positioned underneath it.
Located alongside the M4 motorway, the Prince of Wales Bridge spans a demanding maritime environment.
This technically demanding procedure was required because the gantry had reached the end of its operational lifespan and needed to be renewed.
Mark Maynard, engineering and construction manager for the Prince of Wales Bridge at National Highways, explained that many of the motorways and principal A-roads overseen were built roughly sixty years ago and maintaining them fit for purpose is an ongoing effort, with safety remaining the absolute priority.
The Prince of Wales Bridge spans an area known for harsh weather and environmental difficulties, with much of the maintenance occurring away from public view.
According to Mr Maynard, this gantry performed a vital function in keeping bridge operations running, and its replacement demanded extensive preparation over several months.
The extraction marks the first time National Highways has taken down a gantry from the bridge since it was originally built.
Gantry structures generally stay operational for periods of twenty to thirty years.
Mr Maynard stated that the organization is satisfied with how expertly the removal was carried out and extended thanks to everyone who contributed to the scheme to this stage.
He pointed out that repairs were not financially worthwhile given the gantry’s age and state, despite years of routine upkeep.
The workforce separated the structure into two sections and loaded it onto the barge, doing the opposite of the original 1996 fitting procedure.
This represents the first gantry removal on the bridge.
The gantry has subsequently been taken away for recycling purposes.
Kyle Davidson, regional manager at Denholm Industrial Services, explained that despite a challenging brief involving complex design and environmental constraints, the team collaborated effectively to tackle the difficulties and deliver a positive outcome. The organization is delighted to continue this partnership on the SBIM contract, sustaining close teamwork with partners National Highways and Amey.
National Highways has verified that design work for a replacement gantry is already underway, with fitting planned for this financial year.
The scheme illustrates the intricacy and precision necessary when caring for and enhancing ageing infrastructure, especially on crucial transport corridors exposed to difficult environmental conditions.
National Highways is responsible for the modernisation, upkeep, and running of England’s motorways and main A roads.
Latest traffic updates are available via the National Highways website, radio bulletins, and smartphone applications.
For further details about Severn Bridges maintenance and schemes, visit nationalhighways.co.uk/travel-updates/the-severn-bridges.