Machynlleth

An existing filled arch next to the A487 Railway Bridge in the town of Machynlleth, Powys, is part of a proposed project to re-open the arch for cycle and pedestrian routes.

The existing cycle way is being interrupted by the Railway Bridge. Cyclists are forced to use the carriageway or the footway which is already a high risk for the pedestrians due to its narrow dimension.

These risks would be reduced by opening up the existing arch and allowing access both to pedestrians and cyclists.

The project was directly adjacent to a main road busy with traffic, the programme was extremely tight with key tasks needing to be completed at specific times in order to progress logically, on time and with sufficient strengths to allow the key railway line to re-open to the public.

The use of RamArch reinforced with additional rebar was specified by Network Rail, and the designers specification stated the material to be used was Natcem 430F (steel fibre reinforced). This created a challenging spray; however all cores were grade 1 in both on and offsite cores and the works were a success.

The skewed bridge and perpendicular arches made the portal sections challenging however the challenges were overcome by the skill, experience and workmanship of the teams involved.

As well as the fast setting sprayed material the slab was poured with a mix designed with the same goal in mind, to produce a high strength, as fast as possible to ensure the structure reached 20Mpa before the line was reopened. The strength was achieved well ahead of time and the works were completed, and site demobilised before the blockade had expired.

Our highly trained teams received praise from the client for the high quality of workmanship & Health and Safety values throughout the project.