Historic parts protected and removed, tonnes of surprise concrete removed, and the crossing’s deck slab is ready.
We’re on schedule to get the work completed and save the bridge at the centre of Stamford town life.
Our expert crews have been working hard to get the re-waterproofing, footpath and road surfacing works underway - and have already removed the existing road and paths.
Shifting the materials off the bridge has exposed the underlying concrete slab, which means it is now almost ready for the waterproofing process to begin.
Given the important historical nature of the iconic structure, our crew have being extremely careful with the work plan so as not to damage ancient stone parts used in the original construction. Prior to their removal, all stones and kerbs on the footways were numbered and photographed in position to ensure that these still-usable materials can be reinstated back to their exact place once the waterproofing work is complete.
One particular area of the scheme so far that has taken a huge amount of work to get right, without causing damage to the structure itself, are the footpaths which run across the span of the bridge. At some point in the past, these had been completely filled with concrete, which has required a significant effort – and a lot of time - to be carefully removed.
The bridge team has also started excavation around the abutments on the ends of the bridge to expose the edge of what’s called the deck slab (this is the bit of the bridge surface that traffic goes across).
And again, when the crew began the work on that section of the bridge, the engineers quickly discovered the abutments – like the paths – were also filled with concrete, with the added complication of old gas and water pipes being buried beneath.
As a result of these concrete-centric structural finds, we have revised the original work plan and are now able to carry out an even more thorough job for the bridge by extending the waterproofing membrane onto this part of the concrete surface. The extending of the layer will happen for a substantial length beyond the deck slab because it’s not possible to break up and remove the concrete that’s set above the utility lines. To do that would add a lot more time to the essential work timeframe and we want to get the bridge back to full working order as quickly as possible.
The good news is that, despite all these new challenges, the crew has increased work hours and has managed to keep the schedule on track. So once the repairs and cleaning of the concrete surfaces are completed, it’ll be time the lay the actual waterproofing membrane.
Cllr Michael Cheyne, executive member for highways said: “The crews have been going the extra mile to clear the bridge of the extra work that has come to light because of the concrete and old utility lines, which in-turn have had a further impact on the waterproofing work itself. It’s good news that their efforts have kept the plan on-track, and we’re looking forward to getting on with the actual waterproofing layer itself.
“Personally, I’d like to say a big thank you to members of the public who have been cooperative with the works themselves, and the traffic and pedestrian diversions in place, whilst we carry the plan out. It’s very much appreciated.
“With the works continuing as per schedule, it’s full steam ahead for the next phase before the delicate reinstatement of the historic parts of the structure can begin.
“And as the work is carrying on, it’s important to remind everyone that these works are only on the town bridge itself.
“Businesses in the area are still open as usual in Stamford and it’s still very straightforward to get to St Mary’s Hill and St Mary’s Street for a great day out. The car parks are fully open as you’d normally find in this historic and beautiful town, and I’d encourage everyone to continue using those local businesses in full.
“We will do our utmost to get these works completed as quickly as possible and while we crack on with that, I’d like to express my gratitude to everyone affected by these works for their patience and understanding.”
For up-to-date information about this and other roadworks, please visit www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/roadworks.