The project would ensure the long-term safe and cost-effective operation for the bridge, which was built in 1892.
Work would include:
- Returning the turning mechanism to the original design parameters and replacing or refurbishing, bearings, supports, track and related items.
- Jacking up the bridge to replace the original centre bearing
- Repositioning and fixing displaced masonry blocks of the central supporting pier
- Refurbishing the internal drainage system
- Installing a new access hatch to the turning mechanism to provide safer access
- Repairing timber end pieces to enable the bridge to be supported for the length of the scheme
Minister for Infrastructure David Cretney MHK said:
‘The bridge has been partially refurbished and repaired at different times over the years. However, in 2012 damage caused by significant misalignment was noticed and, following detailed inspection, it was found that extensive replacement and re-alignment of the slewing mechanism was required.
‘If we fail to undertake this work to better protect the slewing mechanism, it will result in its continued deterioration, with consequent increased costs. Ultimately, the mechanism could fail. Whilst such a failure would only have a slight impact on vehicle traffic flows in Ramsey, there would be a significant adverse impact on pedestrians. Also, given the iconic nature and location of the bridge, we feel that undertaking a refurbishment scheme would be much preferred to having to take the bridge permanently out of operation following a major failure. If the bridge was taken out of operation, it would be held in the ‘closed to traffic’ position.
The opportunity will be taken to carry out other repair and maintenance work, including rectifying any other alignment issues and replacing bearings, in addition to fixing, grouting and internally lining displaced masonry blocks of the central pier in order to limit water ingress from ‘overtopping’ situations that occur at extreme high water.
The existing drainage system will also be refurbished and the intention is to install a new access hatch in the road deck above the central pier in order to improve safe access to the mechanism for future maintenance.
The Minister added:
‘Ramsey Town Commissioners and Ramsey Regeneration Committee have been advised of the need for this scheme. However, subject to receiving Tynwald approval, the period up to the intended start of work in early September will be used to brief Ramsey Town Commissioners, the Chamber of Commerce, the public and other interested parties in more detail. It also allows for the ordering and delivery of essential new parts that have a long lead-in time. In particular, it will provide those affected the opportunity to make alternative arrangements for the period of the proposed works as the bridge will be closed to all traffic for the duration of the scheme.’
The overall cost of the proposed workis £749,947 of which £100,000 has already been approved. Should work get underway in September, it is anticipated the scheme will be completed before Christmas 2013.
It is estimated that approximately 60% of the total cost will benefit resident companies and staff. This is due to:
- The main contractor being the Department’s Operations Division
- All plant and site accommodation will be sourced on-Island
- With the exception of the construction advisor and specialist site management services provided by MPM Northwest Ltd, all of the project team is based in the Isle of Man. MPM was the main contractor for the recently completed scheme to stabilise the Queen’s Pier and has extensive experience in the refurbishment of Victorian structures and machinery.
The need to obtain a number of replacement bearings and other castings from specialist suppliers in the UK, because they could not be sourced on the Isle of Man, accounts for a significant proportion of the off-Island expenditure.
In developing this scheme it was recognised that blasting and repainting the bridge, installing energy- efficient decorative lighting, repairs to the road, improvements to traffic management, together with improvements to the operating and control system were desirable. However, this work could cost up to £750,000 depending on the extent and specification chosen and as it isn’t essential it has been deferred. The Department will look in more detail at these elements of work and if appropriate develop a business case for a further capital scheme.
