Essential restoration works to Grimsby’s Corporation Road Bridge are being carried out by a regional firm.
Highly respected Humber company, Hull-based Spencer Group, is tasked with safeguarding the landmark structure for future generations, having won the £5.1 million contract.
It made its name working on the Humber Bridge, prodiving pioneering engineering solutions, and for a time was based at Barrow in North Lincolnshire. It specialises in rail and crossings, with the Menai Suspension Bridge in Wales another recent win.
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Spencer is to carry out a full refurbishment of the Grade II listed bridge for North East Lincolnshire Council and delivery partner Equans.
The works need to be carried out in order for the council to fulfil its statutory obligations to protect the bridge, which is of historical and architectural significance. The restoration will include key structural works, as well as aesthetic improvements, preserving the bridge’s heritage status.
Spencer Group, appointed after a strict tendering process, will have a team upwards of 15 working on the project at any one time, andis using local waste management, builder’s merchanting and haulage services throughout.
Ben Lorne, project manager for Spencer Group, said: “We’re delighted to be carrying out these works, which are a statutory requirement bound by legislation to ensure the bridge remains fully operational.
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“We’ll be safeguarding the bridge for future generations with structural, mechanical and electrical works, as well as painting to protect it from corrosion.
“Much of the work will be done on the underside of the bridge, where we’ll be inspecting, repairing and replacing the structural beams that support the roadway. These works won’t necessarily be visible to the public, but are vital to keep it safe.
“It’s always good to have local people working on a local structure such as this, which is why we’re using Grimsby companies in the delivery of this project.”
Initial works began last month. A full road closure will be in place for the duration of the works with a planned reopenning before Christmas. It will complete ahead of its centenary in 2025, having replaced an original swing bridge that facilitated the development of the West Marsh from 1872.
While closed to traffic, with diversion in place, the 490ft single leaf rolling lift bascule bridge will remain open to pedestrians and cyclists, except during short periods when mechanisms are tested.
The scheme is funded with £3 million from the Department for Transport, £1.8 million set aside by the council and a further £320,000 from the Local Transport Fund.
Spencer is keen to keep the public informed directly. Diane Rowe, customer relationship manager for Spencer Group, said: “It’s important with a project like this to engage with the community and employ local people wherever we can, which is what we’re doing. Anyone who wants to find out more about the project and how it’s progressing is more than welcome to get in touch with us for an update.”
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It has set up a dedicated email address, corporationbridge@thespencergroup.co.uk and issued mobile number 07984 309169.
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