Deployment of a Vehicle Bridge

Creating a solution with product knowledge and industry experience

Balfour Beatty is the largest UK-based construction company and one of only five UK firms classified as a Tier 1 contractor. As a Tier 1 contractor, Balfour Beatty regularly undertakes some of the most significant infrastructure projects in the country, which often require the transportation of large plant and materials during construction. In this instance, the company approached us for a vehicle bridge solution to facilitate early site access. The project required a specialized vehicle bridge to allow heavy-duty plant equipment to cross an existing gully that was otherwise obstructing access. We provided a tailored solution in the form of an adapted CB-12 vehicle bridge, designed to support vehicles weighing up to 45 tonnes, ensuring efficient and safe movement across the site.

Balfour Beatty

Balfour Beatty is a leading force in the UK construction industry, with an estimated annual turnover of £9 billion. As one of only five UK-based Tier 1 contractors, the company boasts decades of experience, regularly undertaking large-scale infrastructure projects, including commercial buildings, highways, and major renovation works. Balfour Beatty has played a pivotal role in the design and construction of the UK’s first new nuclear power plant at Hinkley Point and continues to be a driving force behind the delivery of the HS2 high-speed rail project.

When undertaking complex infrastructure projects, challenges inevitably arise at various stages of the project lifecycle. One often overlooked aspect is providing initial access for enabling works at the outset of a project. In this case, Balfour Beatty was working on the M25 between junctions 23 and 27 to install 15 new emergency rest areas along the highway. To support this project, a compound area was required at junction 23, but access to this area was obstructed by a gully at the entrance, threatening to delay the works. After discussing the initial proposal, the client's requirements were clear: a viable solution with a focus on speed of deployment and installation. At Mitchell Bridges, we pride ourselves on our ability to deliver efficient, effective solutions, and as a result, Balfour Beatty was confident in moving forward with our CB-12 vehicle bridge.

Addressing site access issues with our CB-12 vehicle bridge

Balfour Beatty approached us with an access challenge, emphasising the need for a swift and effective solution. Speed of deployment and installation were critical requirements. While we were well-prepared with stock availability and personnel ready to install at short notice, the project evolved rapidly, and requirements changed to meet the needs of the project. As a result, the initial plan for a standard CB-12 installation had to be adapted, as the width requirement exceeded the capacity of our standard solution.

After thoroughly assessing the site-specific constraints, Mitchell Bridges developed a tailored solution involving two adjacent CB-12 vehicle bridges, with modified edge protection to form a "double-width" bridge. This custom solution met the project’s specifications and could be deployed immediately, minimising disruption to the project timeline.

Why choose Mitchell Bridges for a vehicle bridge?

Mitchell Bridges has been operating for over 35 years, accumulating extensive industry experience across construction, rail, and events. This wealth of experience is vital in understanding the broader scope of a project and delivering bespoke, effective, and efficient solutions for our clients.

In this particular project, Balfour Beatty initially approached us with what appeared to be a straightforward requirement for a CB-12 vehicle bridge. However, the project quickly evolved into a custom solution to address a site-specific constraint. Throughout the process, we remained committed to our core principle of providing a fast, seamless service - from concept to installation - while ensuring the solution met all project requirements.

Installation and Results

Balfour Beatty initially contacted us on 18th July, with the goal of having the bridge installed by 9th August. This timeline included modifications to the CB-12 and the implementation of temporary enabling works on site to support the bridge. The speed of the overall process allowed Balfour Beatty to access their compound site with minimal delays - an outcome that would not have been achievable with alternative solutions.

This demonstrated our commitment to providing Balfour Beatty with a rapid-response service, offering an efficient and effective solution to support their major highway projects. The successful completion of the project will help minimise disruption to the overall programme, as well as to the local community and road users, with an estimated 200,000 vehicles using the M25 daily.

Need a temporary bridging solution?

For further information on the Mitchell Bridges CB12 (12m vehicle bridge) or any other temporary bridging solution, please get in touch. Email enquiries@mitchellbridges.com or speak to Chris Mitchell on 01962 885040.