Installation of a Box Culvert

Replacement of a box culvert and associated works

Great Corby, Near Carlisle, Cumbria
£182,000
17 weeks

The existing bridge over Stony Beck suffered damage following flooding on 17th July 2011 resulting in the partial collapse of the structure which has subsequently been removed.

A temporary 16m ‘Quickspan’ bridge had been installed to replace it and the highway opened to traffic. The replacement permanent structure was to be installed on the same line as the existing structure.

Stoney Beck Culvert Works involved the demolition of remains from the collapsed masonry bridge over the Stoney Beck watercourse, the removal of a temporary replacement bridge and the construction of new precast concrete culvert with associated reinforced concrete retaining walls clad with local masonry. Dry work areas were formed throughout the works using a 900mm flume pipe to divert the beck flow.

The watercourse is close to the River Eden, a SSSI river, so Environmental Agency involvement was very prominent. All necessary permits and permissions were obtained before works commenced. The culvert is located in an area of mature semi-natural broadleaved woodland which lines Stony Beck to both the east and west of the road. The surrounding agricultural land is a mix of improved pasture and arable land divided by hedges.

Highly detailed measures were specified within the Ecological Report for the protection of flora and fauna. For example, all equipment which was be used in Stony Beck (including plant, tools, boots, clothing etc.) was thoroughly washed to ensure no mud or other material is adhering to any area of the equipment and disinfected using a (suitable solution of) Virkon® S prior to use.