Major repair and strengthening works on Drypool Bridge in Hull are set get underway.
Esh Construction has been appointed by Hull City Council to deliver the project, and will work in partnership with Mason Clark Associates.
Initial construction activity will concentrate on the south side of the bridge, involving the removal of footpath railings, surfacing, and partial carriageway and kerb sections. A contraflow system will be introduced during the first phase of works.
Esh Construction and Mason Clark Associates commenced the early contractor involvement (ECI) phase for the key city structure in June last year. Since then, detailed investigations of the bridge’s condition have been carried out and a design and construction programme prepared for the main repair and strengthening project.
Steven Garrigan, Divisional Director at Esh Construction, said: “A significant amount of work has gone on behind the scenes during the early contractor involvement (ECI) phase, therefore we are pleased to reach this latest milestone. We look forward to repairing and preserving this important structure for future generations.”
A routine inspection discovered that several of the load-bearing columns under Drypool Bridge – a Scherzer rolling bascule bridge built in the early 1960s – have significantly deteriorated and the major repair programme is required to ensure its safety and longevity.
Councillor Mark Ieronimo, cabinet portfolio holder for transport and infrastructure at Hull City Council, said: “Fixing Hull’s roads and infrastructure is a top priority for the council. That’s why we have a real plan to invest in the city’s bridges.
“Drypool Bridge has served Hull for generations, and this repair programme is vital to making sure it remains a safe, reliable route for residents.
“The start of the repair work is a huge step forward. Esh Construction and Mason Clark Associates will deliver the project to the highest standards.
“We’ve worked closely with our contractors to plan carefully. Together we’ll do our best to keep traffic flowing and minimise disruption. We appreciate everyone’s continued patience and cooperation while these vital repairs are carried out.”
Andy Thompson, Director of Bridges at Mason Clark Associates, said: “After over a year of design and having completed extensive investigations and consultations to gain all the necessary permits to undertake the works, it is great that work will be starting on strengthening this structure.
Details of phase two of the repair and strengthening works, including the full programme and anticipated bridge closure timelines, will be announced in the coming weeks.
A significant amount of work has gone on behind the scenes during the early contractor involvement (ECI) phase therefore we are pleased to reach this latest milestone. We look forward to repairing and preserving this important structure for future generations.”