Wilford Suspension Bridge

Bridge strengthening and temporary works design on a Grade II listed bridge in Nottingham

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The challenge

In 2008, Inertia Consulting identified that the 70m Wilford Suspension Bridge in Nottingham had deteriorated significantly from previous inspections and its load-bearing capacity had become substandard. We were therefore appointed by Severn Trent Water plc to carry out a principal inspection, dimensional survey, capacity assessment, refurbishment scheme design – including temporary works – and construction supervision for the bridge.

Engineering Consultancy

Our innovative approach to the temporary works reduced the project’s duration as well as the client’s costs. Thanks to our use of advanced techniques, we were able to minimise the amount of strengthening works that were required. Two key achievements were saving the structure’s 100 year old suspension cables and keeping the water and gas mains in service throughout the project. In total, our approach saved Severn Trent around £500,000.

We were proud to receive three prestigious industry awards in recognition of our achievements on this project.

‘Complex technical, environmental and logistical problems were resolved, resulting in the successful refurbishment of a high profile, heavily used landmark structure.’

Judges, ICE Historical Bridges and Infrastructure Awards

The outcome

Our innovative approach to the temporary works reduced the project’s duration as well as the client’s costs. Thanks to our use of advanced techniques, we were able to minimise the amount of strengthening works that were required. Two key achievement were saving the structure’s 100 year old suspension cables and keeping the water and gas mains in service throughout the project. In total, our approach saved Severn Trent around £500,000.

The project team

Severn Trent Water plc – Client
North Midland Construction plc – Main Contractor
Inertia Consulting Ltd – Designers
Pick Everard – Project Managers
Stonbury Ltd – Specialist Subcontractor

The awards

Commendation in the ICE Historical Bridges and Infrastructure Awards 2010
High Commendation in the ICE East Midlands Merit Awards 2010
Nottingham Civic Society Award 2010