Past Project

A34 Wolvercote

Viaduct Replacement

0 Project Value

0 Year Programme

0 Peak Workforce

Project Overview

BCL carried out all FRC works inclusive of abutments, capping beams, piers, cross heads, bridge decks as well as providing scaffold access to the scheme as a whole.

The viaduct was located in an extremely busy location and had the added complication of crossing a railway line and a canal.

Project Details

Client Costain

Principal Contractor Tier 1 Contractor

Project Value £44 Million

Sector Major Infrastructure

Location Wolvercote, United Kingdom

Duration 2010 - 2011

£44M Total Project Value

50+ Peak Operatives On Site

12 Month Programme Duration

Our

Scope of Works

BCL carried out all FRC works inclusive of abutments, capping beams, piers, cross heads, bridge decks as well as providing scaffold access to the scheme as a whole. The viaduct was located in an extremely busy location and had the added complication of crossing a railway line and a canal.

Fibre Reinforced Concrete (FRC) Works

BCL carried out all Fibre Reinforced Concrete works across the project. This included the supply, placement, and finishing of reinforced concrete elements in accordance with the project specifications and structural design requirements.

Abutment Construction

Construction of reinforced concrete bridge abutments to support the ends of the viaduct structure. Works included formwork installation, reinforcement fixing, and concrete placement to form the structural supports connecting the bridge deck to the ground.

Piers and Substructure Works

BCL delivered the construction of the reinforced concrete piers forming the main vertical supports for the viaduct. This included the installation of reinforcement cages, formwork systems, and the pouring of concrete to achieve the required structural strength and durability.

Capping Beams and Crossheads

Construction of capping beams and crossheads on top of the piers to distribute loads from the bridge deck into the substructure. These elements were cast in reinforced concrete and formed a key part of the load transfer system of the viaduct.

Bridge Deck Construction

Works included the construction of the reinforced concrete bridge decks. This involved formwork erection, steel reinforcement installation, concrete placement, and finishing to create the final structural deck spanning the viaduct.

Scaffolding and Access Provision

BCL also provided scaffold access systems across the scheme to allow safe access for construction activities. Due to the project’s location over a railway line and canal, scaffold design and installation were carefully planned to ensure safety, maintain operational clearances, and minimise disruption in a busy area.

Project Gallery

Key stages and completed elements of this major infrastructure programme.

Foundation works in progress

Structural frame installation

Reinforced concrete pour

Key Challenges & Solutions

Delivering major works within a complex infrastructure environment presented significant engineering and logistical challenges requiring innovative solutions from our teams.

Construction Over Live Infrastructure

Challenge: The viaduct was constructed in an extremely busy location, crossing both an operational railway line and a canal. This created significant challenges in terms of safety, restricted working areas, and the need to avoid disruption to rail services and waterway traffic. Solution: Detailed planning and coordination with the relevant authorities were essential. Works were scheduled around rail possessions and strict safety procedures were implemented when operating near live infrastructure. Temporary protection systems and carefully designed access platforms ensured work could be carried out safely while maintaining operational clearances.

Restricted Site Access and Logistics

Challenge: The congested location limited space for material storage, plant movement, and workforce access. Deliveries of concrete, reinforcement, and scaffolding materials had to be carefully managed to prevent delays and maintain productivity. Solution: A structured logistics plan was implemented to coordinate deliveries and manage site access. Materials were delivered in phased schedules, and designated laydown areas were established to maximise the available space. Effective communication between site teams ensured materials and equipment were available when required.

Working at Height Over Multiple Obstacles

Challenge: Construction of the piers, crossheads, and bridge deck required operatives to work at height above both the railway and canal. This increased the complexity of access, safety controls, and scaffold installation. Solution: Specialist scaffold systems and access platforms were designed and installed to provide safe and stable working areas. Strict work-at-height procedures, regular inspections, and comprehensive safety briefings ensured that operatives could carry out the works safely while maintaining productivity.

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