Our team working on the advanced phase of the Chelmsford North East Bypass (CNEB) scheme in Essex are making great progress in the construction of a new bridge that will facilitate ongoing quarry operations when the larger bypass works commence.
The project has been under construction since September 2022 and the team has faced several hurdles including design constraints, supplier issues and logistical challenges. However, at every turn, the team demonstrated resilience and determination to deliver the project safely, professionally and to a high quality. Despite these challenges, the team have done their utmost to identify innovative working methods and solutions to mitigate health and safety risks for all involved.
The use of Maturix sensors to measure and monitor the concrete strength in real time, enabled timely striking of the formwork.
To reduce the need for work at height, the permanent formwork to facilitate pouring of the concrete deck was connected to the main steel beams at ground level. The assembly was then lifted as one, providing a safe solution for construction of the composite deck. The modular ‘PERI-up‘ scaffolding system by PERI SYSTEMS was used throughout the project as it is swift and easy to erect, reducing risks from the erection process. This safe system was utilised as a temporary works solution to stabilise the large reinforcement cages and control the risk of movement during high winds. Also, when used in conjunction with the formwork design, it reduced the need to use additional temporary bars to support the abutment reinforcing cages before the concrete pours could take place.
Well done to everyone involved for working together and persevering through difficult challenges to deliver the scheme.
The team draw ever closer to completing this technically challenging structure with the abutments, wingwalls, deck and parapets all in place; the waterproofing complete, and work continuing on the surfacing and safety barriers to finalise the road over the structure. The two 100m long approach embankments are also nearing completion, in preparation for the final topsoil and fencing works.
The team have also been carrying out additional works for our customer, Essex County Council, including upgrading the adjacent approach roundabout ahead of the main CNEB bypass works, installing drainage ditches for the new road alignment. They are on track to complete the scheme over the coming weeks.
Watch this space for final completion this month!
About the Chelmsford North East Bypass Enabling works Scheme
Our works involve constructing a single span integral highway bridge structure and associated approach embankments and drainage to the north of the Beaulieu Parkway estate in Essex, adjacent to Bulls Lodge quarry. The bridge includes weathering steel beams, reinforced concrete superstructure and deck, safety barriers and drainage elements.
We are carrying out these advanced works, which are part of the £250 million regeneration scheme in the area to support the economic growth and development in the county, to improve accessibility for the residents of Essex. The wider scheme for the region involves development of the new Beaulieu Park railway Station and will support the Beaulieu Park estate in Chelmsford with new road infrastructure and up to 14,000 homes. Also, a new 4.6km single carriageway between the Beaulieu Park development and a new roundabout on the existing A131 at Chatham Green. The construction of the bridge on the site north of Beaulieu Parkway will span the new bypass in future. The new highway bridge will allow the existing mineral quarry at Bulls Lodge to continue to operate during the construction and opening of the bypass
