Swing bridge

Site investigation
There are 2 bridges in Whitby. These are the Whitby Swing bridge and the
high level bridge. The swing bridge was built in 1908. It is a twin leaf
bridge which spans 23m. The carriage width is 4.5m and the footpath has
a width of 1.5m. The bridge separates into two parts which rotate
horizontally, allowing ships to cross. These sections can be operated
independently from a control room which is at the corner of Bridge End
Street. (during high tide the bridge opens for 30 minutes) When the leaves
of the bridge are swung open, the distance between the piers is 21.34m
(70 feet). The motors under the bridge open the bridge in 5 minutes and 4
seconds. This bridge is also a class A road (1 car can cross at a time) with
a footpath on either side for pedestrians. To conserve the historical bridge,
the council has reduced the maximum vehicle weight limit from 17 tonnes
to 7.5 tonnes, permitting access to light vehicles.
The geology of the site around the swing bridge includes salt wick
formation (comprising of sandstone, siltstone and mudstone).
Sedimentary bedrock has been formed over time. There are also signs of
de-icing salt and sea induced corrosion of welded steel pedestrian
parapets.
The bridge has an electrical system and also a hydraulic system. Each leaf
is made out of steel. The maintenance cost of the bridge is 60,000
annually.
The River Esk is affected by rain passing through peat soils. Whitby
experiences heavy rainfall. The colour of River Esks water is murky brown
due to ironstone in the ground. Chloride causes the bridge to corrode
therefore painting the bridge is done regularly to prevent attacks. Swing
bridge piers have signs of corrosion of concrete due to the harsh
environment. River flooding is a concern as the River Esk tends to flood its
banks and houses nearby. To overcome flooding, dredging of the river is
performed.
The swing bridge is operated by the harbourmaster. Scarborough borough
council own the swing bridge and cover all the repairs and maintenance
costs. The bridge requires regular maintenance. The original mechanisms
of the swing bridge are outdated and not produced anymore. The locals
want to keep the bridge as it is a historical land mark which holds
sentimental value.
The swing bridge underwent some refurbishments which cost 250,000.
This included the replacement of timber dolphin and fenders (which
protect the east and west piers of the bridge), new navigation lights,
making the electrical works waterproof, and repainting the bridge. The

bridges computer system was updated to prevent failure and speed up

repairs. E.g. The council spent 25,000 on flying parts from Italy to repair
the gear box failure in 2010.

Health and safety

The swing bridge is the only means to cross the River Esk in the town
centre. This becomes a problem for people/tourist as it is sometimes not
wide enough for people who are wlaking in groups. As a result, people
tend to walk on the road which a health and safety concern as cars are
using the bridge simultaneously. According to the council data, the
number of accidents to pedestrians using the bridge has come to a high
level.

Initial considerations
The swing bridge is a historical landmark. Locals dont want the bridge to
be replaced with a modern bridge.
The initial conditions are:
1) Replacement of the existing swing bridge with a new
sustainable/efficient/cost effective bridge
2) Improve and refurbishment of the existing swing bridge
3) Refurbish and pedestrianize the swing bridge and construct a new
bridge for vehicles
4) Do nothing

1. Replacement of the existing swing bridge with a

new sustainable/efficient/cost effective bridge
Advantages

A new bridge will be cheaper to maintain

It will be reliable
A new bridge can last over 100 years efficiently (long term
solution)
Widen the bridge for cars and footpath for pedestrians
Build a sustainable and eco-friendly bridge which would
benefit the marine environment
Heavy vehicles will be able to use the bridge (load capacity of
bridge will increase)
Resources could be locally sourced making it sustainable
You could use composite materials that would resist corrosion
attacks from the water

Disadvantages

You would have to close the swing bridge (this would affect
local businesses)
No way to cross the River ESK
There is high congestion on the high level bridge
High level bridge would have to be used during construction
The bridge would be closed for a long while
Council could introduce a bus service due to closure of bridge
There would be a large construction site in town centre
Costly
It will look different to the town centre (heritage landmark)
The current bridge attracts tourist

Locals dont want the bridge replaced

Loss of business
Not enough space for a new bridge
Boats will not be able to navigate during construction

2. Improve and refurbishing the existing swing bridge

Advantages

Reinforce the bridge to allow heavy vehicles to use the bridge

Use different mechanisms that are sustainable
Use sustainable materials
Provide jobs
Locally sourced materials
New mechanisms would be available for repairs and low
maintenance costs
Locals would be happy as the bridge would look the same
This could minimise disturbances as it could be carried out at
off peak times
A preserved heritage site
Cost effective
Reduces failure
Elevates traffic congestion
Historical landmark stays
Minimise water contamination
Increase strength of bridge

Disadvantages

Footpath not large enough for pedestrians (still narrow)

Regular maintenance cost
Maintenance is done 4 times a year
Short term solution
Expensive
Doesnt reduce congestion
A bus service would be needed during refurbishments
Does not elevate traffic

Foundation

Enlarge the footings and strengthen the piles. Put sheet piles around
the foundation
Replace the materials
Install gabions (wire basket filled with stones)

Cracks in super structure

Cracks need to be filled and painted over

Reinforcing the connection
Coat over cracks with steel or fibre reinforced polymers
Weld the cracked areas

Corrosion of swing bridge

Add reinforced fibre polymers. They stronger, lighter, and resist

chloride attacks
Maintain steel plates with a coating system
Use anti corrosion paint

Refurbishment method
Onsite
Advantages

No cost
Pedestrians and vehicles have access

Disadvantages

Distraction/obstruction for the workers

Paint will not get full strength due to weathering
Materials could cause delay
Limited space
High risk of an accident on the bridge

Offsite
Advantages

No disruption
Work can be finished on time
No environmental problems
More space to work
Low risk of accidents

Disadvantages

High cost of dismantling

Offsite is a better option than onsite

System

Replace the fender with timber

Use concrete, rubber and steel to construct a fender system

3. Refurbish and pedestrianize the swing bridge and

construct a new bridge for vehicles
Same as improving and refurbishing the existing swing bridge and
more:

Advantages

Less maintenance cost as there would be less weight on the

bridge
It will be used by pedestrians only
During breakdown/closure of new bridge, light vehicles will be
able to use it
Pedestrians will have enough room to travel
Minimise load on bridge
Surface will allow pedestrians and light vehicles to use it
Accident would be avoided (less accidents)
Vehicles can use the new bridge
New bridge would be efficient
Heavy vehicle will be able to use the new bridge (bridge will
have a higher load capacity)
Swing bridge history will be preserved
Load of swing bridge will be lessened (increase strength of
bridge)
It will be beneficial for the locals and tourists
Reduction of CO2 emissions from the swing bridge
It will benefit the community as Whitby roads/streets are
narrow
New bridge will be made using sustainable materials
New bridge wont be one way therefore this will elevate the
traffic
Pedestrians wont tackle the issue of traffic congestion
Reduce congestion
Longer life span of bridge
Use sustainable materials
Improving swing bridge will minimise water contamination
Existing bridge can be used as a backup bridge if the new
bridge breaks down (for vehicles)

Disadvantages

Maintenance cost of pedestrian bridge will still be high

New bridge will be expensive to construct
Location will be vital as you dont want to demolish any
houses
It will be harder for delivery vans to deliver goods to local
businesses
Bus routes will have to be changed
Expensive

4. A Do nothing option
Advantages

The swing bridge is a heritage site; it holds sentimental value

with the locals
The bridge underwent 250,000 which included new navigation
lights, repairing the structure, new computer technology and
electrical works
No disturbances to locals and businesses
Heritage site is preserved

Disadvantages

Repairs on the bridge would remain the same

The bridge can withstand weathering and climate change from 50100 years
Mechanisms are not efficient
This is not beneficial for the town people
Traffic congestion

Detailed Design
The proposed solution is to refurbish and pedestrianize the swing bridge.
This is to make it more sustainable for the future and allow the possibility
of creating a new river crossing. Since the bridge will be pedestrianised,
CO2 emissions will be reduced. This is a historical bridge and it is
important to locals that bridge stays the same. Pedestrianizing the bridge
will reduce the load on the bridge. This will therefore, extend the life span
of the bridge (resulting in less maintenance). Improving the bridge will
reduce maintenance cost in the long term. This is important, as
maintenance of the swing bridge is currently very expensive. Sustainable
materials could be used to improve the bridge. The swing bridge could be
temporarily used for vehicles if the new bridge is closed at any time.
There is not enough room for wheelchairs and pedestrians to walk on the
footpath. This is why there is a high level of accidents on the swing bridge.

Replacing timber fenders and dolphin (sustainable material

timber)|(IS THIS DETAILED DESIGN? SIMPLY ADDING
SUSTAINABLE TIMBER??)
Dolphins protect the piers and timber fenders protect the bridge.
Footways on dolphins result in easy maintenance of the bridge. The
fenders are made of timber. The energy is deflected upwards, which
maximises the protection. Timber is a sustainable and renewable material.
The lifespan of timber is approximately 25 years (this is reduced due to
the harsh environment of the River Esk).
During a recent renovation of 250,000, the timber fenders and dolphins
were replaced. Timber components are in immersion. Harsh conditions
have weathered the timber.
Pressure treated timber is an ideal replacement for timber fenders. This
material is easy to replace in a short period of time and is also cost
effective. A timber fender system will benefit the timber fenders. Timber
fender system needs replacing, the following materials are considered:
timber, concrete and steel. The energy is deflected upwards which
maximises the protection. Timber can be locally sourced and is a
sustainable material.

Corrosion prevention
Timber piles are attacked by wood-boring insects and fungi in the marine
environment. Timber pile and rubber pile jackets are used to protect
against corrosion. The bridge will be painted regularly to protect against
corrosion. The paint acts as temporary coating. Steel has to be cleaned
thoroughly. (WHY IS TIMBER PILES IN CORROSION PROTECTION)
Many components of the swing bridge are weathered. The steel
components were corroded and rust is visible due to exposure of salt
water and salt spray. This is a costly procedure(WHAT IS COSTLY???).
The marine environment has high pollution. Steel loses thickness yearly.
You can minimise this by using anticorrosive paint or metal coating. Blast
cleaning is another alternative. Anti-corrosive paint can last approximately
20 years without maintenance. Metal coating is an alternative method
which can be used. This method also requires blast cleaning. This could
last about average 40 years without maintenance.
Thermal spray can also be used on components of the bridge for
protection. This is a mixture of aluminium, zinc, or a mixture of both. Zinc
is a good option as it is cheap, whilst still performing effectively. Thermal
spraying is more expensive. This method can be used for bridge
refurbishment which costs 35/m^2. An epoxy sealer will be used to fill
the pores. It provides a smooth finish without affecting overall thickness of
coating.
Some methods to clean rust are: abrasive blast cleaning, flame cleaning
and acid pickling. Blast cleaning involves mechanical cleaning. Flame

cleaning is essentially when a gas/oxy flame is passed over a steel surface

(causing rust to come off). However, there is often dust remaining with
this method. Acid pickling involves putting steel in acids that remove mill
scale and rust. Primers are coatings which are applied to the surface. Zinc
rich primer is a good durable material to use.
2 pack chemical paints are chosen for the swing bridge. You can apply it
by: brushing, airless spray, roller, and air spray. Airless spray is a method
of applying paint to structural steelwork.
You can add reinforced fibre polymers. They are stronger, lighter, and
resist chloride attacks. Maintain steel plates with a coating system. And
use anti corrosion paint.

Cracks on super structure

Fibre reinforced polymer will be applied to any cracks to strengthen the
steel members. You could also weld cracks. Cracks need to be filled and
painted over. This would reinforce the connection.

Structural reinforcement
The footings of the swing bridge will be enlarged and the piles will be
strengthened. Sheets will be placed around the foundations. The stone
masonry foundation will be reinforced with mortar so it can withstand
heavy loads. This involves repainting of the masonry joints. The new
mortar should be compressed into the joint to get the best finish. Mortar
should have high amount of Portland cement as it provides resistance to
erosion. Same stones of the swing bridge will be used to maintain its
visual character.
The bridges concrete members will be reinforced with epoxy. Epoxy
injections will be used to repair cracks within the concrete. A dowel and
steel rebar will be used within concrete and the epoxy resin will bond
them together for structural support. The area should be cleared of
contamination before these methods are applied. You will need to
waterproof the electrics and also replace the drainage and ventilation
system.

Road alterations
The road on the swing bridge is a single carriageway and has 2 footpaths.
The footpaths are too narrow which raises a health and safety concern.
Our idea is to refurbish and pedestrianize the swing bridge and create a
new river crossing for both vehicles and pedestrians. The bridge will need
to be repaved. Mastic asphalt will be used for the pavement as it is
recyclable, non-toxic and waterproof. It can last up to an average of 60
years and it is cost effective. It is a strong material and will be able to
withstand different weather conditions. This also helps reduce noise
pollution. It can be laid quickly and is a nonslip service for pedestrians and
cars.

Solar panel lights

These lights reduce carbon and energy costs. It will also require low
maintenance compared to regular street lamps.

Hydraulic system
Light maintenance will be done such as improving the gear box and
electronic controls.

Strengthening the bridge

The concrete on the bridge is damaged. Protective coating such as flex
Crete mortars and coatings are applied(WHY? TO STRENGTHEN THE
BRIDGE?). The steel structure should be checked on a regular basis. If any
corrosion appears, fibre reinforced polymers are used to reinforce the
steel members (strengthen the bridge). Fibre reinforced polymers are
anisotropic. There are 2 types of fibre reinforced polymers: fibre glass
polymer and carbon fibre reinforced polymer. Glass fibre reinforced
polymer is better than carbon as it is not an electric conductor. If a steel
member is corroded or cracked, it would be better to replace it.

Paving the swing bridge

The materials layer of bridges is: bonding/sealing layer (primer),
waterproofing layer, protecting layer, surface layer (asphalt). The
waterproofing layers provide resistance to de-icing agents. Waterproofing
systems are: sheet system, liquid (sprayed) systems, and mastic layer.
Mastic layer can be used with rubber and polymers. The surface layer
which is chosen is an asphalt layer as it is skid resistant. Mastic asphalt is
durable, recyclable, and economical.
The pavement will be removed and replaced with a new surface. The
materials considered for the pavement are: stone pavers, asphalt and
concrete pavers. The best material is asphalt as it is cheap, recyclable,
resistant to chloride, easy to construct, and a low maintenance cost.

Asphalt is sustainable. Mastic asphalt is recommended as it is stronger

and is waterproof.

Method statement
Project management
We will be refurbishing and pedestrianizing the swing bridge and create a
new river crossing for vehicle. This will be done in stages. The detailed
design explains the stages of refurbishment. The materials will be locally
sourced. Trucks will be delivering the materials to the site throughout the
off-peak times of the day (6pm-10pm). This is to reduce congestion whilst
transporting materials.

Diversion
During the refurbishment the bridge will be closed temporarily. Diversions
for local traffic must be provided and planned before the proposed works.
During refurbishment a bus service will be introduced for the pedestrians
as there are no means of crossing the river ESK except using the high

bridge

As can be seen in the above figure, the bus will adopt a diversion route to enable
pedestrians to cross the river. This route will also apply for vehicles.

Cost
This would increase the bridges lifespan about 50 years. This project for
refurbishing and pedestrianizing the swing bridge would cost about
average 500,000. All materials will be locally sourced.

Timescale
The timescale of this project would be a 4-6. This is considered enough
time for the proposed works.

Principle Plant Required

The following plant required is a general guidance. Contractor to insure all
machinery is fit for purpose and use.

Road laying machine roller used to flatten the road

PPE Personal protection equipment
Port o cabins (If required)
Suitable painting equipment
Thermal spray
Welding equipment

Environment impact assessment

Swing bridge project
This report examines the environmental effect of refurbishing and
pedestrianizing the swing bridge. Improvements include solar navigation
lights, replacing pavement with mastic asphalt, repainting the bridge with
a durable paint, strengthening the bridge by using flex Crete on concrete
foundations and fibre reinforced polymer on the steel. Rubber jackets will
be coating the timber. It will be pedestrian only and a second bridge will
carry vehicles. The marine environment will be closely monitored
throughout the refurbishment. Atmospheric pollution may occur when
vehicles bring in the materials.

Alternative options
Alternative options that were discounted included; refurbishing the bridge
and replace the bridge with a sustainable one. The former was discounted
as it did not did not tackle traffic congestion and pedestrian safety. Second
solution is not economical nor do the locals want it as it is a historical
landmark. Taking social, environmental and economic factors into
consideration refurbishment and pedestrianizing the bridge was the best
option.

Environmental aspect affected by refurbishment and

pedestrianizing the swing bridge
Placing rubber pile jackets should be done in low tides. Make sure that the
flora and fauna is unaffected. Refurbishment will be done in steps so that
bridge can still function and navigate boats. When bridge is closed the bus
will use it to cross the river. The noise levels during repaving will affect the
local residents.

Impacts of refurbishment and pedestrianizing on environment

Refurbishing the swing bridge will affect local businesses. The bridge will
be a pedestrian bridge. Less pedestrian accidents will occur. If the new
bridge is out of order, then this bridge could be used for vehicles in
emergency.

Environmental impact forecast

CO2 will increase due to vehicles arriving on site but will later reduce as
the bridge will be pedestrianized. This will also encourage greener mode
of transport such as cycling.

Climate change
There will be an increase in CO2 emissions due to refurbishments. Building
a new bridge would mean more vehicles will use the bridge therefore

more CO2 emissions. Materials used on swing bridge such as timber and
mastic asphalt are carbon neutral. Pedestrianizing the bridge would result
in less CO2 emissions.

Traffic control
Our proposed design would be pedestrianizing the swing bridge and
introduce a new river crossing for vehicles. The pedestrians/wheelchairs
would be safer. The new bridge should reduce the amount of pedestrians
as it will have a footpath. This should minimise the health and safety of
pedestrians who use the bridge. The new bridge will be operated by traffic
lights on either side.

Waste management
During refurbishment waste products will be removed from site so no
damage will be done to flora and fauna, where possible waste will also be
recycled. Hazardous waste will be disposed of appropriately.

Noise pollution
Refurbishments will result in noise pollution which may affect he locals
and businesses for a limited time. The pavement (material asphalt) will
eventually lead to a reduction in noise pollution which the locals will
benefit from.

Air pollution
Abrasive blast cleaning causes high levels of dust. Silicosis can be caused
if you breath in dust. Workers should provide the appropriate protection
and pedestrians a safe distance away. Actions can be taken to ensure
minimal air pollution.

Visual impact
Refurbishing the bridge will not affect it visually as it is a historical
landmark.

Flora and fauna impact

Flora and fauna will have no effect in this environment. As a precaution
ecologist will be consulted of best ways to avoiding damage to flora and
fauna prior to the refurbishments. The environment will be monitored after
refurbishment to ensure no damage/disturbance is done to the flora and
fauna. Carefully putting on a protective layer on the foundation on flora
and fauna.

Design matrix
Selection
criteria

Replacemen
t of existing
swing bridge
with a new
sustainable
bridge

Environme
ntal
impact

It is energy
efficient but
loads of
materials are
needed.
+2

Cost

High
construction
cost but a
low
maintenance
cost.
0

Time scale

There is
going to be a
long
construction
time.
-5

Health
and safety

There will be
a lower
accident
rate.

Improve
and
refurbish
existing
swing
bridge

Refurbish
and
pedestriani
ze the
swing
bridge and
construct a
new bridge
for vehicles
Less
Materials will
materials are be needed
needed but
however
there will be constant
a constant
maintenance
refurbishmen will not be
t cost.
needed.
0
+2
It costs less
There will be
than a new
a lower cost
bridge
of
however
maintenance
yearly
for the swing
maintenance bridge
is still
however
required.
there will be
-1
maintenance
for 2 bridges.
The cost of
constructing
a new bridge
will be high.
-1
There will be There will be
a short
a high
construction timescale for
time.
constructing
-1
a new
bridge.
-5
Pedestrian
There will be
safety will
a lower
still be at
accident rate
risk.
and less CO2

Do nothing

None
-2

None
-2

Maintenance
will still be
needed.
-2

Pedestrian
safety is still
at risk.
-3

Economic
impact

Effect on
public

Aesthetics

Overall
net score

+3

-2

Construction
jobs can be
created.
There will be
quicker
business
deliveries.
Bigger boats
can access
the harbour
through the
bridge.
+4
It allows
traffic to
travel in both
directions.
However,
traffic is
impacted
during
construction.
0
Architecture
will be
similar.
0

Construction
jobs will be
created.
Business
deliveries
will still be
impacted.
Bigger boats
will not be
able to
access the
harbour.
+2
The traffic
will be
impacted
during
construction.
-1

+4

-3

Architecture
will still be
the same.
0

emissions.
+5
Construction
jobs will be
created. The
number of
tourists and
tourists zone
will increase.
+3

None
-2

Traffic will
not be
affected
during
construction
+2

None
-2

Swing bridge
will be kept
and a new
bridge will
add to
Whitbys
architecture.
+2
+8

The historical
landmark will
still be the
same.
0

-13

Designers Risk Assessment