Best practice guidance on the maintenance of older metal bridges

Many of the large number of older (pre-1960) metal highways structures are now in need of sympathetic strengthening.  There is often a useful residual life that can be determined using modern analytical and assessment techniques, which can raise assessed capacity and justify retention of the bridge in service.  This research will produce detailed guidance on these techniques and on suitable repair methods.  It will review and update best practice in inspection and maintenance.

The work is being undertaken by a constorium led by Gifford WSP and a final report is expected in mid-2007. This project will be managed by the Construction Industry Research and Information Association (CIRIA) [www.ciria.org], rather than directly by the Department for Transport.

The resulting guidance will form a companion volume to the CIRIA guides to the management of masonry arch bridges and to the maintenance of retaining walls.