Temporary works specialist, Altrad RMD Kwikform (Altrad RMDK), recently supported Sword Construction UK Limited (Swords) with the development of the New Wear Footbridge in Sunderland, supplying a bespoke formwork solution to main contractor VolkerStevin for the new structure that’s located over the River Wear.
Project Overview
Sunderland City Council has developed a masterplan to turn Riverside Sunderland into an exceptional new place to live, work and visit. The New Wear Footbridge project is a small but vital part of a £500m regeneration scheme for the banks of the River Wear and the city centre, which also includes new homes, offices and a library. Standing as a testament to modern engineering, the New Wear Footbridge will provide connectivity between Sheepfolds and the city centre. At 10 metres wide, 30 meters high, and stretching over 250 meters, this impressive feat of engineering will stand on reinforced concrete piers, with a steel box girder superstructure and a precast concrete deck.
The Challenge
Altrad RMD Kwikform and Sword Construction faced multiple challenges during the scheme, including stringent timelines and exacting engineering requirements. For example, the project schedule set by VolkerStevin required the timely installation of girder beams, which had strict delivery deadlines that allowed little margin for delay.
The bridge’s location directly over the River Wear added complexity, as the equipment and structure were subjected to harsh environmental elements such as wind and rain, introducing additional safety considerations and potential delays. Additionally, the construction zone within the river gouge provided limited space for both equipment and the site team, necessitating highly efficient planning and use of the available area.
The Solution
To overcome these challenges, Altrad RMD Kwikform and Sword Construction worked together and deployed various engineering solutions that were specifically tailored to meet the project’s precise requirements. Alshor Plus, Minima formwork and Superslim Soldiers were all selected for their strength and stability properties. These solutions provided the necessary shoring and formwork capabilities needed to support the bridge deck, which required enhanced stability due to the location above the water. They also ensured smooth, secure concrete pours throughout the construction phases.
Altrad RMD Kwikform and Sword Construction also provided custom formwork shutters designed specifically for the bridge piers. These customised solutions were tailored to align with bridge specifications, enabling efficient and consistent pours. This approach ensured both structural integrity and durability while accommodating the different formed finishes between the upper and lower pours.
To combat the constraints of the tight working space, Altrad RMD Kwikform and Sword Construction specified solutions that were both quick to erect and dismantle, which meant the team was able to optimise their efficiency, keeping on programme and avoiding potential delays.
This approach also addressed the environmental challenges of the bridge’s location, enabling the construction team to effectively plan in advance. These solutions enabled VolkerStevin to deliver a bridge that enhances connectivity and serves as a modern focal point for the Riverside Sunderland area.
Matthew Bell, Senior Sales Representative at Altrad RMD Kwikform said: “This project highlighted the versatility of our product range and how even in challenging conditions, such as those faced on the New Wear Footbridge, our modern engineering tools were able to overcome various hurdles and achieve something to be proud of.
“It’s been a great opportunity to collaborate with Sword Construction on this project to help enhance the connectivity across Riverside Sunderland and contribute to a new focal point for the local community.”
Andy Lambert, Operations Director at Sword Construction UK Limited said “This project although challenging was a welcome opportunity for us to collaborate successfully with Altrad RMD Kwikform in overcoming these challenges through their engineering solutions that embedded the concept of buildability, enabling us to keep on programme and avoid potential delays. Allowing us to play a part of which we are proud in providing and improving connectivity for the local community.”
