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Refurbishing Shaky Bridge, Comrie
Crossing the River Lednock, the Shaky Bridge near Comrie has been a cherished local feature for years. Comprising twin steel primary beams and a timber deck, the bridge was unique in the fact that it relied on a tree on the north bank to support the deck, but over time, the tree had deteriorated and was no longer suitable for the job.
M.A.M Contracting was entrusted with the task of refurbishing the bridge, ensuring its safety and longevity while respecting its historical significance and surrounding natural beauty.
Primary Objectives
The project's primary goal was to refurbish the Shaky Bridge to meet modern safety standards while preserving its aesthetic and functional character. Key objectives included:
- Assessing and upgrading the route for construction traffic.
- Removing the failing tree support and replacing it with a new, in-situ reinforced concrete abutment.
- Refurbishing the bridge structure with galvanised steel beams, a refurbished timber deck and modifications to existing steelwork.
- Minimising the environmental impact during construction and reinstating all working areas upon completion.
Challenges Faced
The Shaky Bridge project presented a number of unique challenges for our team. Access to the site was via a private farm track with minor watercourse crossings, which required assessment and strengthening in order to support the necessary construction plant and materials. Working in a riverine environment also necessitated temporary works, such as cofferdams, to manage the river flow and ensure site safety.
We had to remove the tree support and construct a new abutment, which required precise engineering and coordination. Although M.A.M Contracting completed all on-site works as scheduled, delays caused by the design engineers impacted the overall project timeline.
How M.A.M Contracting Completed the Works
Despite these challenges, our experienced team were able to complete the project efficiently, employing expertise and meticulous planning at every stage.
Access Assessment and Strengthening
We completed a detailed dilapidation survey of the existing track, taking photographic evidence of the condition prior to any work happening. This was followed by the necessary widening and strengthening works to safely accommodate construction traffic.
Temporary and Permanent Works
We established a secure construction compound along with crane pads to dismantle the existing bridge. Cofferdams were installed to manage the river flow and ensure safe and environmentally conscious operations.
Bridge Dismantling and Reconstruction
The bridge was carefully dismantled, and the tree on the north bank was removed, including grubbing out of the roots. A new in-situ reinforced concrete abutment was installed, followed by the fabrication and installation of galvanised steel beams and support.
Deck Refurbishment and Reinstallation
The timber deck was meticulously refurbished before being reinstalled alongside the steel structure, ensuring the bridge retained its charm and functionality.
Site Reinstatement
Finally, all working areas, including the access tracks and construction compound, were reinstated to their original condition, leaving the site pristine.
The Benefits
The Shaky Bridge project was able to deliver a number of benefits to the local community. The new structure maximised the safety of the bridge and ensures that it will endure for decades to come, providing a vital connection for visitors and residents alike.
We prioritised eco-friendly practices throughout, minimising disruption to the surrounding environment. Our team also focused on preserving the heritage of the iconic bridge, ensuring the end result maintained its original character and blended modern engineering with traditional aesthetics.
While the overall project faced delays beyond M.A.M Contracting’s control, the on-site works were delivered as programmed, reflecting our commitment to reliability and excellence.