Low carbon solution for Helsington Moss Highway Culvert

79%

CO₂e Saving

349Kg

weight of 2250mmØ pipe

25%

improved installation efficiency

Preserving Nature Using Innovative Infrastructure: The Aquaspira Solution at Helsington Moss Bridge

Located in an environmentally sensitive area in Cumbria, Helsington Moss bridge is a single span masonry arch structure supporting a narrow road over a main drainage channel. Suffering from significant structural issues resulting in the closure of the road, the initial decision was taken to re-build the structure with piled foundations.

Challenge

Upon investigation of the ground conditions, the ground was found to be very poor. The lanes leading to the location of the bridge were very narrow and uneven, making access difficult for delivery of heavy machinery and materials.

Solution

An alternative solution was devised to incorporate Aquaspira pipes and a vegetated bag system. This enabled the existing reinforced earthworks to be retained to support the road, and the bridge opening could then be formed with the Aquaspira pipe. This lightweight solution reduced the imposed load on the ground to minimise settlement, whilst reducing volumes of concrete and steel.

Outcome

Site logistics and construction complexity were greatly eased, and the project provided a great example of how a significant reduction in carbon and better solutions can be achieved by considering alternatives to conventional norms.