Whorlton Suspension Bridge - Works continue
Following receipt of the ‘Scheduled Monument Consent’ from Historic England in December, VolkerLaser is continuing with the detailed design of the structure and complex temporary works required.
The Environment Agency has granted a permit to the team for the first stage of the works, which has allowed the structure to be cleared of vegetation using specialist rope access techniques.
This allows us to expose the supporting masonry abutments and wingwalls in order to undertake a detailed inspection. Once completed, a temporary catenary system will be installed to provide support to the existing BT cables below the deck. The installation of this system will also be undertaken utilising rope access.
The masonry towers are in process of being covered with debris netting, mitigating any potential delay by protecting against nesting birds. Once the utility diversions are completed, scaffolding will be installed, and part removal of the towers will begin.
An onsite workshop is also currently being constructed, which will allow us to securely store, inspect and paint all bridge elements once they have been removed.
In the background, our specialist team is growing, with some new members recruited, including two locals who are familiar with the bridge, and various training and development is being completed, including rope access and water awareness training.
The site team was also able to assist one of our neighbours when they had their fishing boat stolen. It was noticed hidden in undergrowth at the site of the bridge, along with other belongings. Following discussion with local police, we are in the process of returning it back to its owner.
