Marnhull bridge stabilisation works nearly complete
North Dorset's MP has been visiting the site to check progress
Work to stabilise the Kings Mill bridge at Marnhull are edging closer to completion, with North Dorset's MP visiting to see how crews are getting on.
Dorset Council's highways team have been checking the Grade 2 listed structure throughout the Autumn.
It was found the east and west walls supporting the carriageway over the River Stour were moving, causing the carriageway to sink.
That's a potential danger for users of a key link road, so 93 sheets of steel piling, each between 7 and 12 metres long, have been installed to support the road edge.
Cllr Jon Andrews, Dorset Council’s Cabinet Member for Place Services said:
“Our bridges and structures team consistently demonstrate their dedication to maintaining our local infrastructure, much of which is centuries old.
“This is a challenging job, due to the density of the clay which characterises the geology of the local area.
“Despite deteriorating weather conditions, including the recent Storm Bert, the team is progressing well. Drawing on their own skill, together with the expertise of local steel piling specialists they are once again delivering complex work to preserve one of our many important structures in Dorset.
“Thank you for your patience and support while we work to make the road safe and useable again.”
Simon Hoare, MP for North Dorset, joined the team to see how work was progressing and said:
“I had raised the condition of the road at the bridge with the Council some while ago so was delighted that work was agreed to. This is a main road in North Dorset and it certainly required repair.
“The site is very constrained and the weather and issues with thick clay hasn’t helped; however, it was wonderful to meet the team working on it. I have to say the best, most engaging and committed group I have met in a long time. Their professionalism and expertise shone through. I was delighted to be able to thank them for all they are doing to keep our local roads usable and safe.”
The stabilisation process is due to complete by mid-December, but diversion routes will stay in place until end-January, when the road will be resurfaced.