March 16 2021 –
A REMARKABLE restoration of a swing bridge of huge historic merit has captured a top award!
Winnington Swing Bridge in Northwich, Cheshire, is one of the first electrically-operated swing bridges ever seen in the UK.
Now the project has won first prize in the “small projects” category of the INSTITUTE of CIVIL ENGINEERS (North West) Civil Engineering Awards which was held this month.
The Awards celebrate excellence in civil engineering across the north west of England and the success confirms CGC’s increasingly-UK wide presence.
The bridge is of immense historic value and CGC Rail was tasked with repair works to the 111-year old Grade 2 listed steel structure.
CGC Rail’s expert workmanship has replaced deteriorating sections to ensure the much-loved landmark can continue to operate and extend its life.
The work included strengthening, painting and refurbishment of the footbridge which the entire project taking six months to complete
Zed Khan, Rail Director of CGC Rail said: “This is a stunning triumph in a keenly contested category in these Awards. We are naturally delighted and it is a huge pat on the back for everyone who was involved.”
The Winnington Bridge project beat five other finalist projects from across Lancashire, Merseyside and Cumbria.
The Canal and River Trust-owned bridge carries the A533 between Winnington and Barnton over the River Weaver and the work became necessary to avoid longer, more disruptive closures should its condition deteriorate further. It was constructed in 1908/1909 and replaced an earlier one built in 1901.
Leo Reilly, Managing Director of City Gate Construction of which CGC Rail is part added: “Congratulations to everyone involved. This is well-deserved victory and a huge endorsement of the hard work and skill deployed in preserving this historic bridge.”
Commenting on the win, Emma Antrobus, Director of the Institute of Civil Engineers North West said: “This was a focus on repair not replacement and a real blueprint for reducing carbon in infrastructure. It was truly hands-on engineering in action.”
