SURVEY SUPPORT WORKS

Survey Works at Structure HDT 1948 – Rail Over Road Bridge

Our team recently achieved the successful completion of a package of works at Structure HDT 1948, a rail-over-road bridge spanning Whitehall Street in London. The bridge required both inspection preparation and reinstatement measures for our client Bridgeway. All activities were delivered on time, in line with programme expectations, and to the highest standards of safety and workmanship.

The scope of works began with vegetation clearance. Vegetation had grown close to the bridge structure and presented both access and inspection challenges. Our LANTRA-certified operatives carried out clearance within 3 metres of the structure, as well as directly from the bridge face and deck level. This ensured that surveyors could conduct inspections unhindered and without the risk of obstruction or damage from overgrowth. The clearance also contributed to the long-term integrity of the structure by preventing further encroachment.

Following this, our team managed the careful removal of existing pigeon deterrents, including spikes and protective mesh from the underside of the bridge. This stage was undertaken with care, as it was essential to provide safe and unobstructed access for the surveyors undertaking tactile  inspections. The removal process was carried out in a controlled manner to avoid damage to the structure while also protecting operatives and road users/pedestrians beneath.

Once inspections had been completed by the surveyors, our operatives reinstated bird protection measures by installing new pigeon spikes and replacing pigeon mesh. This step ensured that the structure remained fully safeguarded against bird activity, protecting both the integrity of the bridge and the surrounding environment. The use of new materials provided a robust, long-term solution in line with current standards for wildlife control on infrastructure assets.

All works were delivered under a well-managed traffic management (TM) plan. This required site visits prior to the works being carried out, and then careful co-ordination to minimise disruption to road users and the local community. By working within these controls, our team ensured the safety of both operatives and the public, while maintaining steady progress toward project completion.

To deliver the works safely and efficiently, our operatives drew upon a wide range of skills and formal competencies. This included PTS (Personal Track Safety) for working within the rail environment, IPAF certification for the safe operation of MEWPs, and LANTRA qualifications for vegetation clearance. In addition, our operatives hold full Highways Tickets, enabling them to work effectively in both road and rail settings. The combination of these competencies meant that the team was well equipped to handle the varied and complex demands of the project.

Throughout the works, care was taken to maintain a tidy and safe site environment. On completion, the site was left clear and free from debris, reflecting the professional standards expected from AW Rail.

This project is a strong example of the type of work that AW Rail is increasingly being asked to deliver in support of the nation’s rail and highways infrastructure. By combining technical expertise, multi-skilled operatives, and a commitment to safety and quality, we continue to contribute to the reliability and resilience of key assets across these  networks.