B3181 Baulk Bridge Replacement

This contract requires a replacement bridge to replace the existing one on the B3181. The existing bridge is in poor condition and previous investigations have determined it is not economical to repair and therefore a new replacement bridge is required, with a 120-year design life. The replacement will be located on a new alignment to allow for the existing road to remain open for a significant time during construction, without the need to severely interrupt traffic flows or to provide a temporary bridge. The requirement for a replacement bridge provides an opportunity to improve the highway alignment by locating the bridge downstream of the existing bridge, via 320m of realigned carriageway. It will also allow for 320 metres of improved pedestrian facilities and vehicular containment that could not be achieved within the footprint of the existing bridge. Once completed the existing bridge and redundant road section will be removed to improve flood conveyance and storage. The scheme also includes highway associated drainage, a flood relief culvert and ecological habitat enhancements.