Three BAM projects were honored at New Civil Engineer’s Bridges Awards in London last week.
Herring Bridge, Great Yarmouth – Road Bridge of the Year
The Herring Bridge, constructed by the BAM Farrans JV for Norfolk County Council, won Road Bridge of the Year. This double bascule bridge, Great Yarmouth’s Third River Crossing, aims to ease congestion and support the town’s regeneration.
The judges praised the project for enhancing community wellbeing and resilience while blending seamlessly with the landscape and incorporating innovative construction methods. Gavin Pearson, New Civil Engineer editor, highlighted the significance of bridges in civil engineering and commended the high quality and range of entries across the award categories.
King Edward Bridge, Newcastle – Bridge Management Project of the Year
BAM and Network Rail’s King Edward Bridge project in Newcastle secured the Bridge Management Project of the Year award. The King Edward Bridge, a grade II listed railway bridge spanning the River Tyne between Newcastle and Gateshead, is celebrated as ‘Britain’s last great railway bridge.’
BAM was tasked by Network Rail to inspect, assess, and design a plan to preserve this historic structure. The use of innovative digital technologies allowed for a safe inspection and an accurate repair and strengthening plan. The judges highlighted the outstanding use of new technology to minimize the impact on the operational use of the bridge and enhance future inspections and maintenance.
Apperley Lane Bridge, Bradford – Innovation in Climate Resilience
The Apperley Lane Bridge strengthening scheme, undertaken by BAM Mott MacDonald JV for Leeds City Council, won the Innovation in Climate Resilience award. This Grade II listed road crossing over the River Aire was strengthened as part of the Leeds Flood Alleviation Scheme, protecting over 1,500 homes and businesses in Leeds.
The judges were impressed by the consideration of various extreme flood events and the preservation of the heritage of the Grade II listed structure, which now safeguards the community around the River Aire.