Work on the restoration of the Gasworks Pipe Bridge has taken a step forward with the appointment of a contractor.
The bridge links the Isis towpath with Friars Wharf and St Ebbe’s. It was closed in 2021 following concerns over its safety. The City Council and County Council have jointly been working hard to arrange remedial work with the aim of reopening the bridge as soon as possible. The councils have been working with partners Stantec, specialist structural engineers, on the refurbishment and strengthening of the bridge. They have now appointed B&M McHugh to carry out the work, who are about to start on site.
B&M McHugh are specialist civil engineering contractors. The company was founded in 1967 with a track record of working with public sector and private sector customers.
The work is due for completion in October when the bridge will be reopened to the public, with its future secured for a further 100 years.
“The bridge tender process was complex and challenging due to the nature of the works and the specialist skillsets and experience required.
“The tender attracted a limited number of contractors. There were four in total, but all had a very diverse approach to the project. We are now looking forward to working with B&M McHugh to move this project forward and bring this much–used bridge back into use for the benefit of the local community.”
Councillor Ed Turner, Cabinet Member for Finance and Asset Management
“We are delighted to be working on the Gasworks Pipe Bridge and we look forward to contributing to its history and ensuring the bridge continues to be in use for a long time into the future.”
Mick Ware, from B&M McHugh
B&M McHugh is currently carrying out preliminary works and site set up before starting work later this month.
There has been some slippage in the programme due in part to supply chain issues and shortages in the construction industry but all of the partners in the project are focused on minimising any further delays to the programme. Whilst the completion date is later than was originally envisioned, all are acutely aware of the inconvenience to residents of the bridge being out of action and are working hard to make sure it can be returned to use as soon as possible.
Diversion routes continue to be regularly inspected and checked to ensure they remain in a good condition including items such as signage, and that routine leaf clearance is being undertaken.
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