Eric Wright Civil Engineering has started work on the £7.4million replacement Clyde Road Bridge.

A key project milestone has already been achieved as specialist contractors Aarsleff have completed installation of all pre-cast concrete piles for the new bridge substructure.  Engineering experts Mabey Bridge have also been appointed by EWCE to manufacture  and install the main bridge superstructure which will span 90m over  the River Clyde, near the Carstairs Junction, 30 miles south east of Glasgow.

The existing bridge was built in 1912 and was an early example of reinforced concrete bridge construction in Scotland. However, a three-tonne weight limit was imposed for a number of years and it was finally closed to traffic in August 2018 for safety reasons due to severe structural defects.

When constructed the 90m single span will be launched across the river from one side rather than being lifted into position. The new bridge is being built on 64 piled reinforced concrete abutments to provide maximum stability and improved weightbearing. Once the new bridge has been completed the existing bridge will be demolished and removed from site.

A community information event/series of events were held before Easter to advise the local community of the ongoing programme of works.

Speaking about the contract, Diane Bourne, managing director at Eric Wright Civil Engineering, commented:

“This bridge has been in desperate need of replacement for many years, and we are delighted to have been appointed and to mark the start of delivering this much-needed local infrastructure which will benefit the community for decades to come.

“The project will include a 4.2-metre-wide carriage way and an additional footway as well as bringing in new approach roads to the north and the south which will tie into C29 Pettanain Road. Our team has extensive experience in delivering key infrastructure projects such as this including the award-winning Pooley Bridge replacement in Cumbria.”

South Lanarkshire Council’s Head of Road and Transportation Services, Colin Park, said:

“It’s great news that work has started on the new Clyde Bridge.  This will reinstate an important part of our road network and see the end of the current diversion route, which can add significant time and miles onto journeys, for road users.”