Rights Managed > Historic England > Industry > Engineering and Construction > Building Motorways > Severn Crossing M48
Bridge at night JLP01_10_29363
Filename: jlp01_10_29363.jpg
Size: 6680 x 5267 (6.5MB)
Date: 16th March 2022
Source: Historic England
Credit: © Historic England Archive. Joh
Copyright Status: Copyrighted Work
Source: Historic England Archive
Owner URL: https://images.historicenglandservices.org.uk/
© Historic England Archive
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Historic England
Bridge at night JLP01_10_29363
SEVERN BRIDGE, M48, AUST, SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE. The Severn Bridge lit up at night, seen during strengthening work done by Laing.
The original design and construction of the Severn Bridge had under estimated the increased volume of traffic since its completion in 1966 and whilst built to last 120 years it was found to require remedial work after just 20. Laing Industrial Engineering & Construction won the £ 29.5m contract from the Department of Transport and strengthening work on all elements of the structure began in May 1987. The project was completed in April 1990 in the same year that Laing jointly won the contract for the construction of the second Severn Crossing that would take the traffic pressure off the first bridge and extend its lifespan even further
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 24561525
© Historic England Archive
1980s Atmospheric Bridge Lights Motorway Night Scene Road Transport Darkness
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the majestic beauty of the Severn Bridge at night, as it illuminates the darkness with its mesmerizing lights. The bridge, located in South Gloucestershire, was undergoing strengthening work by Laing Industrial Engineering & Construction during this time. Originally built in 1966 and expected to last for 120 years, the bridge faced unexpected challenges due to a significant increase in traffic volume. Consequently, remedial work became necessary after only two decades. In May 1987, Laing secured a £29.5 million contract from the Department of Transport to strengthen various elements of the structure. This project aimed to ensure that the iconic bridge could withstand future demands and continue serving as a vital transportation link. The photograph not only showcases the architectural brilliance of this motorway marvel but also highlights its significance within road transport history. With an atmospheric ambiance created by darkness and strategically placed lights, it evokes a sense of awe and wonder. Interestingly enough, while Laing worked on reinforcing this historic landmark in 1990, they were simultaneously awarded another contract for constructing the second Severn Crossing. This new addition would alleviate traffic pressure on the first bridge and extend its lifespan even further. Preserved by Historic England Archive, this image serves as a reminder of both engineering triumphs and our continuous efforts to adapt infrastructure according to evolving needs – ensuring safe passage for generations to come.
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