The condition of the bridge stock is monitored through an inspection regime that comprises general, principal, special and underwater inspections.
The inspection regime, which is in accordance with the Management of Highways Structures - A Code of Practice, ensures that all highways are safe and fit for purpose.
General Inspections
Highway structures are inspected on a two year cycle and findings are recorded on inspection forms.
Principal Inspections
A thorough more detailed inspection of this is carried out on a six to eight year cycle. Detailed reports are prepared for each structure.
Special Inspections
Special inspections are undertaken following receipt of a report of vandalism, accident damage or collapse of a structure. Interim measures are implemented as required following the inspection.
Underwater Inspections
Underwater inspections of the eight river bridges in the district:-
- Castleford Bridge
- Castleford Foot Bridge
- Chantry Bridge
- Ferrybridge Old Bridge
- Horbury River Bridge
- Thornes River Bridge
- Stanley Ferry Briudge
- Wakefield New Bridge
are commissioned on a three to four year cycle or following periods of severe flooding.
The results of the inspections show that Council owned structures are in fair condition using the Bridge Condition Indicator (BCI) score.
The BCI score is used in conjunction with other factors to determine levels of funding through the Local Transport Plan.
Maintenance Workbank
Maintenance work is identified through the inspection regime and is recorded in the Maintenance Workbank.
Maintenance is prioritised using the following criteria:-
- Safety and functionality. Criteria considered include structure type, route carried, obstacle crossed, element and overall condition, assessed capacity, likelihood and consequence of failure, traffic restrictions.
- Benefits/disbenefits. Criteria considerd include lower or higher whole life costs, reduced or increased journey times, minimisation of network disruption, integration of work to achieve cost savings
- Socio-economic and environmental. Criteria considered include local policies, user/customer perception, impact on local communities and businesses, environmental impact
Assessment/Strengthening Programme
All Council owned structures have been assessed to determine their ability to carry the 40 tonne lorries that use the roads today.
As a result of the assessment programme a number of bridges have been found to be deficient and in need of reconstruction/strengthening to enable them to safely carry the imposed loads.
The reconstruction/strengthening programme funded through the Local Transport Plan, has been ongoing for several years and is nearing completion.
Bridges owned by Network Rail and British Rail Property Board have been assessed by the Council under agreement. A programme for undertaking the required reconstruction/strengthening work is ongoing. This work is being carried out by Network Rail/British Rail Property Board as appropriate.
