The ambitious restoration of the Yarm Viaduct is underway, aiming to fortify this historic structure for future generations.
- Yarm Viaduct, a Grade II listed structure, undergoes crucial foundation strengthening to avert deterioration.
- Roger Bullivant leads the complex installation of 656 piles, balancing modern techniques with historical preservation.
- Quiet and vibrationless jack down piling is chosen to mitigate structural and environmental impact.
- Over half of the planned installations are complete, demonstrating significant project progress.
The Yarm Viaduct, a distinguished Grade II listed structure from the mid-19th century, stands prominently over the River Tees and the town of Yarm. The viaduct, characterised by its 43 arches, is currently undergoing essential engineering work to stabilise its foundations and prevent further degradation. This pivotal endeavour is being managed by Roger Bullivant, a renowned specialist in piling, on behalf of the main contractor, Amco Giffen.
To ensure the viaduct’s stability, Roger Bullivant is tasked with the installation of 656 steel tubular piles. These piles are driven to depths reaching 13 metres beneath the surface, anchored in challenging ground conditions comprised of soft clays overlaying sandstone. The project commenced on the 22nd of July and phase one was charted for completion over a rigorous 12-week timeline. Noteworthy progress has already been achieved, with approximately 310 piles installed and eight columns completed.
The advanced jack down piling technique, employed specifically for this endeavour, was selected due to several compelling factors, primarily related to the infrastructure’s antiquity and its sensitive surrounding environs. This technique is particularly advantageous because it facilitates the installation of piles with minimal noise and vibration, thereby reducing the potential for damage to the existing structure and the nearby community and woodland.
The methodology involves the use of hydraulic rams to insert the steel piles into the ground using the viaduct’s own structure as a stabilising force. This innovative approach involves the placement of steel transverse beams through the existing brickwork piers, which are supported by reinforced concrete pile caps. These pile caps efficiently transfer the structural loads from the viaduct, channeling them into the stable substrata below.
Jim Hargrave, northeast regional manager at Roger Bullivant Limited, emphasised the project’s dual focus on demonstrating technical prowess and preserving historical architecture. He stated, “This project not only highlights our technical capabilities but also our commitment to safeguarding historical infrastructure while minimising the impact on the local community.”
The ongoing restoration of the Yarm Viaduct exemplifies a harmonious blend of advanced engineering practices and careful preservation of historical infrastructure.
