Tintern Wireworks Bridge Improvements Jan 2023 update

VolkerLaser has made significant progress to the Wireworks Bridge project since our last update. Scaffolding to the bridge was completed on 4 November, allowing the structure to be fully encapsulated by 28 November. The encapsulation is required to protect the surrounding environment during the grit-blasting process, preventing any contaminated grit from entering the watercourse below.

Visually, the bridge structure appeared to be in poor condition, however, during the blasting operation it was found that the majority of the structural steel was in remarkably good condition, although some repairs were required.

Following blasting works, the steelwork was treated with a heavy coat of grey primer to prevent any further corrosion and deterioration of the existing steelwork. Painting was carried out in a heated environment to ensure that the surface of the steel was free from condensation and to provide a suitable temperature for curing the primer coat.

External repairs to the existing western abutment stonework commenced on 5 December, following approval of trial repointing works by Gloucestershire County Council and Monmouthshire County Council conservationists.

Repointing and stonework repairs are currently ongoing and expected to be complete early in 2023.

Works to reduce the height of the existing stone piers and abutments to seat a new steel deck structure are ongoing and the
structural steelwork is being manufactured off-site by a local subcontractor. Delivery and installation of the steelwork is expected to commence in late January, with completion of these steelworks scheduled for late February 2023.

Encapsulation completed on 28 Nov 2022.

Grit blasted steelworks.

Following grit blasting works, the steelwork was treated with a heavy coat of grey primer.

Repointing and stonework repairs are currently ongoing.