The M53 Moreton north bridge carried the J2 southbound entry slip road over the motorway. At 50 years old, it had reached the end of its serviceable life and required replacement by a new structure.
Carnell were tasked with the removal of the bridge, and through Early Contractor Involvement, successfully delivered a value-engineered solution, leading to significant cost-savings and improved outcomes for the customer.
Rather than demolishing the bridge in-situ, the 800-tonne bridge deck would be removed using a self-propelled modular transporter (SMPT). This would relocate the bridge to a laydown area for demolition off-network, allowing the carriageway to be opened quicker. This however required enabling works, such as changes to the drainage, strengthening the verges and barrier removal.
Working in collaboration with the client National Highways, principal designer Amey, specialist demolition contractor O’Gara and other framework partners, improvements were made to the design.
