In December Brewood Bridge had to close after structural damage affecting the bridge walls, the access road into Brewood, and a Severn Trent water pipe was discovered.
Built in 1830 Brewood Bridge crosses the Shropshire Union Canal and provides an important access route into town for residents in Brewood travelling along Kiddemore Green Road and High Green.
Working closely with Staffordshire County Council and Severn Trent, we will stabilise and repair the damage to the bridge approach wall and resurfaced the road. The main water pipe, owned by Severn Trent, has already been repaired.
Our investigations are ongoing to find out what caused the damage however we are committed to starting the bridge repairs in the coming weeks so that the bridge can be reopened as quickly as possible.
Update 8 September
Last week, our contractor, Kier, has been on site carrying out trial holes to identify underground services and gather additional information about the bridge structure. This work will help confirm key design assumptions and ensure the repair plans are based on the most accurate information available. Further trial holes were also undertaken on the cutting slope last week.
During the week commencing 21 September, scaffolding will be installed beneath the bridge to allow engineers to take core samples through the bridge arch. A borehole investigation will then be undertaken to provide further information about the ground conditions and support the final design.
Work is also continuing on the detailed design and Approval in Principle process, which we expect to conclude within the next two to three weeks. This will allow repairs to begin as soon as possible following completion of the borehole investigations.
At the same time, we are developing a detailed programme for the repair works, which will be shared with the local council once it has been agreed. We will continue to provide updates as the project progresses and thank everyone for their patience while this important preparatory work is carried out.
Update 24 August
We've now shared and discussed the proposed repair with Staffordshire County Council to make sure it is suitable for both the road and the bridge. Detailed design drawings are currently being prepared.
From the week beginning 31 August, we'll be carrying out up to three weeks of investigative work on site. This will help us identify the exact location of underground services and gather some additional information about the bridge that is needed to complete the design.
Once this work is finished, we'll have a clearer picture of the next steps and will be able to provide an estimated completion date for the repair.
Update 23 July
We have previously shared an outline design proposal and supporting sketches with Staffordshire County Council, along with an explanation of how our repair solution will be constructed. We are now preparing to follow this up, with the full specifics on the design criteria, and a step‑by‑step description of how each element of the repair will be undertaken.
Once this technical information has been submitted, it will be followed by detailed drawings to further support the proposal. We are still aiming to begin the bridge repairs in the summer.
Update 16 June
Our designers have now put together a design proposal, which has been shared with Staffordshire County Council. The next step is for us both to go through the formal process of agreeing the design parameters. While that’s happening, we will be working on the detailed drawings and getting everything lined up with our contractors so we’re ready to get started as soon as the council gives us the green light.
The design includes rebuilding the outer wall using the existing bricks, along with matching replacements, and following the original profile so the bridge keeps its character and historic feel. If everything goes to plan with approvals, we’re expecting to begin the repair work over the summer.
Update 1 May
Our consultants Arcadis have completed a 3D survey of the bridge to help with planning and designing appropriate repairs. Design work will continue throughout May, along with liaison with Staffordshire County Council. Once the design is ready, there will be a period of review and approval. We’re are still currently aiming for repair work to begin over the summer.
Update 12 April
We’re working closely with our consultants, Arcadis, to design the repair of the bridge wall and road surface. As part of this work, a 3D survey and inspection of the bridge will be carried out to help us plan the repairs. The survey is expected to take place during April and, once the design is ready, it will be shared with Staffordshire County Council for review and approval. We’re currently aiming for repair work to begin over the summer.
