M.A.M Complete Repair of Craigendowie Bridge In Edzell

M.A.M Contracting recently completed essential repairs and renovation work on Craigendowie Bridge, near Edzell, for Angus Council. Having deteriorated significantly over the years, the Category B masonry stone arch bridge was in very poor condition and posed safety and structural concerns.

A previous intervention involving an Armco culvert and fill placement had further compounded the issue and resulted in displacement and failure of associated gabions. In addition to this, multiple fallen trees were blocking the upstream channel.

Primary Objectives

The primary objectives of the project were:

• To clear the site by removing debris, including the damaged Armco culvert and trees in danger of slippage.
• Repair and strengthen the existing masonry stone arch and associated components.
• Replace outdated elements, including road surfacing and water outlets with long-lasting, high-quality alternatives.
• Ensure safe flow diversion during works and restore the upstream channel.
• Implement solutions designed to extend the bridge’s lifespan and enhance its use for pedestrians and vehicles alike.

Challenges Faced

The Craigendowie Bridge project posed several challenges for our M.A.M Consulting team. The bridge’s structural elements, including the spandrel walls, voussoirs and arch barrel, were in a very poor condition, necessitating intricate repair works. We also had to undertake a complex clearance operation, removing large trees up to 20 metres in height and 450mm in diameter that were posing a significant risk of slippage.

While we completed the works, we needed to divert the water flow safely to prevent flooding and soil erosion Of course, being such a historical construction and a listed structure, we also had to be careful to preserve the bridge's historic character. 

How M.A.M Contracting Completed the Works

Utilising our two decades of experience in civil engineering, we were able to act as a one-stop service for Angus Council, providing everything necessary to arrange, design, construct and complete the works. This included:

• Site clearance and flow diversion

We removed the damaged Armco culvert, associated gabions, and obstructive trees while creating a bespoke water flow diversion system to ensure uninterrupted work and prevent environmental damage.

• Temporary propping and repair work

Temporary propping of the arch barrel was implemented, stabilising the structure while we undertook repointing of the spandrel walls, voussoirs and arch barrel.

• Modernisation

We replaced the existing road surface, water outlets and barriers with a new reinforced concrete deck alongside additional waterproofing, surfacing and kerbing installations.

• Upstream and downstream restoration

Stone pitching was applied below the bridge to form new aprons, replacing the existing structures with a more environmentally friendly solution.

• Traffic and pedestrian management

We implemented a comprehensive management plan to ensure minimal disruption to local traffic and safe passage for pedestrians while we completed the project.

• Health and safety compliance

A detailed Health and Safety file compliant with CDM Regulations 2015 was compiled, ensuring the project adhered to all statutory requirements.

The Benefits

The successful completion of the Craigendowie Bridge project delivered significant benefits to Angus Council and the local community. We were able to restore the bridge to its full functional capacity, with the enhancements we implemented ensuring its durability for decades to come. Our meticulous restoration also respected the bridge’s historic character, preserving its aesthetic and cultural value.

Clearing the upstream channel and adopting environmentally sensitive restoration techniques helps to improve the surrounding ecosystem. The new reinforced deck, barriers and water management systems also enhanced safety for all users.

Our comprehensive approach and innovative solutions ensured a cost-effective result for Angus Council, minimising unnecessary expenses while guaranteeing high-quality results.

The rehabilitation of Craigendowie Bridge exemplifies our ability to deliver complex restoration projects with precision and ingenuity. By leveraging our expertise and skills, we successfully preserved this historic structure to ensure locals can use it for many more years.