Blasting works have revealed the need for more repairs than originally planned on the century-old Corporation Road Bridge in Grimsby, north-east Lincolnshire.
Grit blasting works to the undersides of four of the bridge’s spans allowed for a detailed inspection of the structure, which showed the need for further reconstruction.
Main contractor Spencer Group began refurbishing the Grade-II bridge in February 2023. Although reopening was scheduled for last December, this had to be cancelled after engineers found the condition of the bridge to be worse than expected.
Encapsulation and scaffolding are now fully erected to the north side of spans five and six above deck to prevent dust, debris and adverse weather from affecting the works. Grit blasting is now in progress on these sections as well.
Due to Marine Management Organisation license restrictions, works to the underside of these spans cannot start until spans one to three are complete.
The timber lifting deck has been removed and a temporary deck has been installed while works are still ongoing.
A spokesperson for Spencer Group said: “This bridge has been in place for almost 100 years, and exposed to harsh environmental conditions, including the salt waters of the River Freshney.
“Steelwork repair works have begun both above and below deck, with painting works progressing as repairs permit.”
