Historic masonry bridge assessed to confirm structural capacity, ensuring safe vehicle access while identifying maintenance needs for long-term use.
Historic masonry bridge assessed to confirm structural capacity, ensuring safe vehicle access while identifying maintenance needs for long-term use.
Location: Taunton, Somerset
Longaller Bridge is a historic masonry structure carrying a private access road over the River Tone. Dating from at least the mid-19th century, the bridge reflects traditional rural infrastructure typical of the region. Constructed as a single-span segmental brick arch, it features a span of approximately 10.6 metres and a relatively narrow carriageway width of 3.2 metres. The bridge’s construction includes brick parapets and a combination of squared coursed rubble for the spandrel walls, abutments, and wing walls, demonstrating traditional engineering techniques.
AWA undertook a detailed inspection for assessment in accordance with standard CS 450. This process involved a comprehensive visual review of the structure’s condition, identifying defects and areas requiring attention. A schedule of recommended remedial works was developed, prioritised to guide future maintenance. For accurate evaluation, AWA coordinated a targeted intrusive investigation, including a trial pit at the crown of the arch to confirm the barrel thickness, an essential parameter for load assessment.
Following inspection, AWA completed a Level 1 load assessment in accordance with CS 451. The analysis confirmed that the masonry arch possesses sufficient capacity to safely support modern vehicle loads of up to 40/44 tonnes. This outcome provided the client with confidence in the bridge’s continued use for vehicular access, while also establishing a clear basis for ongoing maintenance and asset management.
AWA Consulting Engineers is a structural, civil, and marine engineering consultancy established in 1987, with a hard-won but deserved reputation for delivering excellence in our profession.
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AWA has technical teams in our offices located in Romsey, Hampshire and Bath, Somerset. We deliver services to clients typically across the South, South East and South West.
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To find out more about how AWA Consulting Engineers can help with your project, get in touch today. Email mail@awaengineers.com and one of the team will be in touch. Alternatively, call 01794 524447 to speak to a member of our team.
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