Over a period of nine months, our Eiffage Génie Civil teams undertook the renovation and structural reinforcement of this historic bridge. The project was carried out under the supervision of the Architects of Buildings of France, with special care taken to preserve the original 19th-century masonry.
Preserving Heritage While Protecting Nature: A Successful Rehabilitation in the Heart of the Hautes-Pyrénées
The recent rehabilitation of a historic structure in the Hautes-Pyrénées stands as a testament to Eiffage Génie Civil’s ability to blend technical excellence with environmental sensitivity. Located in immediate proximity to the Neste d’Aure River, the project demanded not only engineering expertise but also a strong commitment to ecological preservation and heritage conservation.
Given the sensitive location, the environmental stakes were high. The construction teams implemented targeted protective measures to reduce the ecological footprint of the works, particularly focusing on the impact of the cofferdams on the aquatic ecosystem. These cofferdams, necessary to carry out structural interventions in a dry environment, could have posed a threat to the river’s biodiversity. To prevent this, our teams designed and executed a tailored solution that included sediment control, fish passage accommodations, and real-time water quality monitoring. These precautions ensured that the natural balance of the Neste d’Aure was preserved throughout the duration of the project.
At the structural level, one of the key challenges was to stabilize and secure the heritage-listed building during construction. To do this, a massive metal arch measuring 15 meters in length and 6 meters in height, and weighing approximately 16 tonnes, was installed with precision. This steel framework was slid beneath the existing structure to ensure its integrity throughout the various phases of the works. This feat required exacting coordination and advanced lifting techniques, all performed with minimal disruption to the existing masonry, which dates back to the 19th century.
Collaboration was essential to the project’s success. We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the Hautes-Pyrénées Department and GETEC Sud-Ouest for their continued trust and support throughout this complex rehabilitation. Special thanks as well to Acchini, whose expertise in earthworks and VRD (Voirie et Réseaux Divers – roads and various utility networks) played a crucial role in ensuring the groundwork met the project’s high standards.
Above all, congratulations to our dedicated teams who carried out this technically demanding rehabilitation with professionalism and pride. Their efforts made it possible to restore a significant heritage structure while demonstrating a deep respect for the surrounding environment.
This project is a perfect example of what can be achieved when engineering precision meets environmental responsibility. Restoring a listed building while minimizing its ecological impact is more than just good practice—it’s what truly makes a difference.
