Surtees Bridge

Surtees Bridge, a vital artery over the River Tees, is an impressive modern structure that connects the bustling A66(T) road near Thornaby-on-Tees in the borough of Stockton-on-Tees, North East England. This architectural marvel, positioned just a kilometer upriver from Stockton town center, seamlessly blends functionality with structural elegance, making it a significant landmark in the region.

The Historical Context

The story of Surtees Bridge begins with its predecessor, the original Surtees Bridge, constructed in 1981. This initial structure was a concrete and steel bridge built by The Cementation Company, featuring dual two-lane carriageways and spanning 145 meters with four intermediate piers. Despite its robust design, the original bridge soon showed signs of distress due to unexpected settlement issues on the eastern bank. Geotechnical surveys had underestimated the depth of the soft alluvial layers, leading to significant settlement and movement of the eastern abutment. Over time, the eastern abutment rotated and sunk, causing the bridge bearings to overrun and necessitating a rebuild.

The Decision to Rebuild

By the early 2000s, it became clear that the original Surtees Bridge could no longer meet the demands of modern traffic, especially with the introduction of 40-tonne heavy goods vehicles. The Highways Agency decided to replace the bridge entirely rather than attempt costly and technically challenging renovations. This decision was driven by the need to address the settlement issues, accommodate wider lanes, and ensure the bridge met contemporary safety standards.

The New Surtees Bridge (2008)

The present Surtees Bridge, completed in 2008, stands as a testament to modern engineering prowess. Designed by A1 Integrated Highway Services and Halcrow, the bridge spans 150 meters with three spans – a central 50-meter span flanked by two 48-meter side spans. The structure features three-lane dual carriageways and a pedestrian and cycle track, providing a comprehensive solution for both vehicular and pedestrian traffic.

Design and Construction

The new bridge's design incorporates a slab and girder construction using reinforced concrete and steel plate girders. Each girder is made up of five sections, and the bridge is nine girders wide with in situ concrete decking. The river piers are supported by 22 bored case piles, each 1220 mm in diameter, drilled into sandstone bedrock. These piers offer enhanced protection against ship collisions, a crucial feature given the bridge's proximity to navigable waters.

The construction project, awarded to Edmund Nuttall (now BAM Nuttall) at a cost of £14.3 million, faced numerous challenges, including maintaining river traffic and managing the existing twisted bridge structure. Despite these obstacles, the construction was completed in 23 months, with the bridge opening to traffic in December 2007 and officially inaugurated by Transport Minister Tom Harris in January 2008.

Engineering Feats

The construction process was a marvel of modern engineering. The project involved the use of a 1200-tonne Gottwald AK680 mobile crane, capable of lifting bridge sections weighing up to 254 tonnes. This crane, along with two crawler cranes, played a pivotal role in assembling the bridge. The construction also included the installation of 130,300 mm square reinforced piles in the eastern embankment to mitigate future settlement risks.

Throughout the project, safety and efficiency were paramount. The bridge's construction was completed without any injuries, a testament to the meticulous planning and execution by the construction teams. The new Surtees Bridge not only resolved the issues of its predecessor but also set new standards in bridge construction and safety.

Operation and Significance

Since its opening, Surtees Bridge has become one of the busiest crossings over the River Tees, handling approximately 55,000 vehicles per day. The bridge's strategic location and robust design ensure smooth traffic flow across the region, making it a crucial component of the local infrastructure.

The bridge's significance extends beyond its functional role. It stands as a symbol of resilience and progress, reflecting the region's commitment to overcoming challenges and embracing modernity. The successful completion of Surtees Bridge also paved the way for the replacement of the nearby Tees Bridge railway bridge, further enhancing the area's transportation network.

Award-Winning Achievement

Surtees Bridge has garnered recognition for its excellence in construction and safety. It received the RoSPA Occupational Health and Safety Gold Award in 2007 and the Civil Engineering Contracting Association's Project of the Year Award. These accolades highlight the project's success in delivering a safe, efficient, and durable infrastructure solution.

In conclusion, Surtees Bridge is more than just a crossing over the River Tees; it is a landmark of engineering excellence and a vital link in the region's transportation network. Its history, from the challenges faced by its predecessor to the triumph of its modern replacement, tells a story of innovation, resilience, and progress. For visitors and locals alike, Surtees Bridge stands as a proud symbol of Stockton-on-Tees' commitment to building a brighter, more connected future.