Client
The Highland Council
Value
£1.2M
Sectors & Services
Highway Structures Marine Structures Concrete Repair Corrosion Control Cleaning & Preparation Projects Projects
The project involved a strategically important bridge in the Scottish Highlands, spanning a tidal estuary with sensitive ecological conditions. The structure required concrete repairs to the deck and supporting elements, as well as a full resurfacing and waterproofing programme to maintain its operational integrity. Parapets were also replaced to enhance safety for vehicles and pedestrians.
Additionally, a sacrificial anode cathodic protection (CP) system was installed to safeguard steel piles, pile caps, and deck beams against ongoing corrosion. The works were essential to extend the service life of the bridge, ensure resilience against harsh environmental conditions, and comply with both operational and environmental requirements in this ecologically sensitive area.
Services Undertaken
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Concrete repairs to deck beams, pile caps, and steel piles
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Installation of sacrificial anode cathodic protection system
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Full deck waterproofing and resurfacing
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Renewal of parapets
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Installation of traditional hanging scaffold and WebDeck access system
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Traffic management, including temporary full bridge closure
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Environmental protection measures for sensitive wildlife
CRL implemented a technically complex programme, beginning with the repair of deck beams, pile caps, and steel piles to address structural deterioration. Access presented a significant challenge, resolved by combining traditional hanging scaffolds with a WebDeck system suspended from tensioned cables, allowing operatives to safely work above the highest tide.
Concrete repairs were followed by the installation of a sacrificial anode CP system to prevent future corrosion, while the deck was fully waterproofed and resurfaced to improve durability. Parapets were renewed, and all works were coordinated with traffic management to enable a short full bridge closure, significantly compressing the project timeline by six weeks.
Environmental considerations were integrated throughout, including measures to protect sea otters inhabiting the surrounding rock armour. CRL’s approach ensured technical precision, safety compliance, and minimal disruption, optimising both construction efficiency and structural longevity.
"A difficult project in a far-away place, made more difficult by the extreme weather and the environmental considerations."
Alisdair MacDonald | Senior Contracts Manager | CRL
The project delivered long-term structural resilience and operational reliability by combining advanced concrete repair techniques with corrosion prevention measures. The sacrificial anode CP system, waterproofing, and resurfacing collectively enhance durability, reduce future maintenance requirements, and extend the service life of the bridge.
CRL’s careful planning and use of innovative access solutions allowed the project to be completed ahead of schedule while mitigating environmental risks and protecting sensitive wildlife habitats. Close collaboration with the client ensured that traffic disruption was minimised and environmental compliance maintained.
This project highlights CRL’s expertise in delivering complex structural repairs in challenging locations, providing sustainable asset management solutions and safeguarding critical infrastructure for decades to come.
