BRIDGE BEARINGS: ST DOMANIC’S IMPRESSIVE BRIDGE RESTORATION – DROGHEDA
Case Studies / BRIDGE BEARINGS: ST DOMANIC’S IMPRESSIVE BRIDGE RESTORATION – DROGHEDA
Main Contractor:
Jons Civil Engineering Company Ltd
Consulting Engineer:
O’Connor Sutton Cronin
Date:
2022
PROJECT SUMMARY – Sustainable Mobility: SDG’s Bridge Bearings in the Restoration of St. Dominic’s Bridge
St. Dominic’s Bridge, a historic landmark connecting Drogheda’s town centre, holds a significant place in the local community’s collective memory. Built in 1863 by Grendons of Drogheda, the bridge once served as a vital transportation artery for both pedestrians and motor vehicles. However, in the 1970s, it was replaced by “The Bridge of Peace,” limiting its usage exclusively to pedestrians.
In an effort to revitalise this structure and promote sustainable mobility in the region, a restoration project was undertaken for St. Dominic’s Bridge. SDG took pride in playing our part in the project. Our Calenberg Bridge bearings ensure the structural integrity and safety of the restored bridge, further enhancing its value as a vital pedestrian link for the local community.
THE CHALLENGE
The comprehensive refurbishment plan for St Dominic’s Bridge encompassed a series of enhancements, central to which is the replacement of bridge bearings to ensure the longevity and safety of the structure. The reinforcement of the pier columns with composite epoxy fabric to fortify the bridge’s base, while the replacement of horizontal ties and cross bracing members to restore structural integrity. Concrete edge beams needed repaired, and areas with significant cross-section loss were to be strengthened or replaced.
This strategic plan aimed to revitalise the bridge, prioritising its durability and functionality.
With most long span bridges, thermal expansion is a force which needs to be accommodated through movement design. Without consideration for movement, the structure can be placed under excessive and detrimental stress.
OUR SOLUTION
To accommodate structural movements, Calenberg S65 bridge bearings were employed as a permanently elastic articulating deformation bearing. This innovative bearing will work to effectively transfer superstructure movement into the fixed substructure.
By utilising these advanced Calenberg bridge bearings, the new bridge structure exhibited improved structural resilience compared to the previous design.
This enhanced capability allows the bridge span to withstand the dynamic forces and stresses exerted on it, ensuring long-term durability and stability. These innovative bearings enabled the structure to adapt and move in tandem over time, effectively eliminating the risk of deterioration of the bridge.
THE RESULTS
The St Dominick’s Bridge refurbished project, an ICE Awards finalist in 2023,has enhanced the area into an environmentally friendly green space for use by the public and is promoting sustainable living providing a high-quality cycle and foot way in this central location. The removal of the old tarmacadam and concrete surfacing, replaced with granite like paved and seating areas.
This project was a great example for collaborative working between the design team O’Connor Sutton Cronin and the construction team of Jons Civil Engineering and Gabriel Hughes (Steel Specialist) to ensure the best outcome for the Client and the public using the bridge. It has enhanced the life span of this original 18 century bridge and provides a strategic link from the town centre to the residential areas on the south western side of Drogheda.
At SDG, we offer a comprehensive selection of specialist solutions to meet all your civil engineering or construction project needs. From Bridge Bearings, Structural & Sliding Bearings and Structural Waterproofing to Reinforcement Systems and Formwork Accessories, SDG can provide customised solutions and expert technical advise to suit your projects exact specifications.
Share this post
