Background
Cookham Bridge is a Grade II listed multi-span bridge crossing the River Thames in Cookham, Berkshire. The structure was constructed in 1867 and is owned and maintained by the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead (RBWM).
Cookham bridge is a historic landmark but also forms a vital transport route connecting Cookham with Bourne End. Routine inspection data identified deteriorated steelwork elements, failing paintwork, water ingress and defective bearings. If left unaddressed, these issues would have compromised the durability and structural integrity. Closure of the structure would result in a 14km diversion causing major disruption to through-traffic. As well as local residents, businesses, and bus services.
RBWM commissioned Project Centre to develop an appropriate remediation strategy and prepare the detailed design. We were subsequently commissioned to provide site support and contract management services for the construction phase.
Engineering solutions
Project Centre scoped site investigations to examine the identified defects and determine their causes. These confirmed widespread corrosion to the existing end trimmer beams and at the bearings. We applied a holistic, whole-life asset management approach to determine the scope of works. This included replacing the end trimmer beams and bearings, re-waterproofing the bridge deck, and repainting the structure.
The bridge needed jacking from temporary support locations to facilitate the bearing replacement. We used our structural analysis skills to assess the impact of the temporary works on the bridge and designed the new trimmer beam to accommodate the temporary jacking loads. We designed abutment modifications and provided the end trimmer with permanent jacking points to support future maintenance activities.
The age of the structure and limited record information introduced considerable risk to these intricate and complex modification works. We applied our extensive understanding of buildability constraints to incorporate appropriate tolerances into the detailed design to address this risk and simplify the construction process.
Extensive engagement
This high-profile project had multiple stakeholders, including the Environment Agency (EA), residents, businesses, bus operators, and various RBWM departments. Our proactive engagement approach was essential to securing local support and necessary consent for the project. This included hosting community engagement events to explain the project and obtain input on how to minimise the impact of the works.
The EA were liaised with early in the project to identify additional ecological surveys required. And to secure the bespoke permit for the construction works without affecting the programme. The same early engagement was employed to secure listed building consent for the proposed modifications, including Early Contractor Involvement to inform these discussions.
The construction phase
Project Centre assisted the RBWM with splitting the construction works into two packages to meet their budgetary constraints, deferring the repainting works. We used our accredited project managers to act as NEC project manager on behalf of the RBWM, to deliver the first construction contract. Project Centre continued their collaborative approach liaising with the contractor and their supply chain to support risk management and the timely delivery of the works.
Project Centre provided site support during the construction phase, responding to technical queries and onsite issues. We collaborated with the contractor and their supply chain harnessing our responsiveness and adaptability to address these queries and issues quickly to avoid delays.
We were appointed as CDM Principal Designer for the duration of the project. The team applied our CDM expertise to manage health and safety during the pre-construction phase and reduce construction and maintenance risks in the design. We prepared the Pre-Construction Information, assisted the Principal Contractor to prepare the Construction Phase Plan, and prepared the Health and Safety File on completion. We also assisted the client throughout the project to execute their CDM duties.
Added value
Project Centre provided technical and management expertise throughout all project stages, to develop a robust, safe, solution to extend the life of this vital piece of infrastructure. A collaborative approach ensured successful delivery and maximised the value for local communities and the wider borough.
We leverage application asset management and structural engineering expertise to develop sustainable designs, while utilising commercial, communication, and managerial skills to drive efficient construction delivery.
Testimonial
“Project Centre provided client PM services to support the refurbishment of Cookham Bridge. Being a listed structure, there were a number of complex issues to overcome, which Project Centre’s design team handled quickly, professionally, and efficiently. The relationship built with the contractors on-site ensured smooth delivery of the project to budget.”
The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead
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