UK bypass project underway

Work is underway in the UK for the A417 Missing Link project. A new underbridge that will form part of a major new junction is being built by contractor Kier. National Highways and Kier have started lifting 53 of the 20tonne pre-stressed concrete beams into place that will carry nine lanes of traffic over the new Shab Valley junction.

Once lifted into place, the beams will form an underbridge 20m wide and 62m long, providing access for residents and factories when switched from existing to new road through Shab underbridge.

The new underbridge will also allow traffic from the A436 Seven Spring and the B4070 Birdlip to enter and exit the new A417 without disrupting the flow of traffic.

The reduced weight of concrete enables construction using a smaller crane which simplifies logistics, manages health and safety risks, and lowers overall construction costs when compared with a steel girder construction. Longer term, it also reduces maintenance requirements by utilising an integral construction and concrete specification tailored to local environmental conditions.

Celine Acard, National Highways’ senior project manager for the A417 Missing Link, said: “We’re really proud of the progress we’re making on this major upgrade of the A417, and work taking shape on the new Shab Valley junction is a testament to our pace and efficiency on the scheme.