Rights Managed > Historic England > Industry > Engineering and Construction > Building Motorways > Severn Crossing M48
Welding JLP01_11_32608_10
Filename: jlp01_11_32608_10.jpg
Size: 5260 x 5304 (4.9MB)
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
Welding JLP01_11_32608_10
SEVERN BRIDGE, M48, AUST, SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE. A welder within one of the deck sections of the Severn Bridge strengthening the joints between the steel ribs.
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
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Media ID 24561517
© Historic England Archive
1980s Bridge Light Motorway People Protection Renovation Steel Work Enclosed Sparks
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This print captures a pivotal moment in the renovation of the iconic Severn Bridge. In this image, a skilled welder can be seen diligently working within one of the deck sections, strengthening the joints between the steel ribs. The original design and construction of this remarkable bridge had not anticipated the significant increase in traffic since its completion in 1966. Consequently, after only two decades, it became evident that remedial work was necessary to ensure its longevity. Laing Industrial Engineering & Construction successfully secured a £29.5 million contract from the Department of Transport to undertake this crucial project in May 1987. Commencing with extensive strengthening work on all elements of the structure, their efforts aimed to rectify any structural deficiencies and enhance its overall durability. The photograph showcases an atmosphere filled with sparks and smoke as welding takes place amidst an enclosed environment. The welder's protective gear, including their mask and personal protective equipment (PPE), is prominently visible as they meticulously carry out their task. Ultimately completed in April 1990, coinciding with Laing's joint success in securing another contract for constructing the second Severn Crossing, this ambitious endeavor would alleviate traffic pressure on the first bridge while further extending its lifespan. Preserved by Historic England Archive, this snapshot serves as a testament to both human ingenuity and engineering prowess required to maintain vital infrastructure like bridges for generations to come.
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