An historic Grade II listed bridge restored by Denbighshire County Council has won an Institute of Civil Engineers Award.
Pont Telpyn, which links the A525 at Rhewl with the B5429, is about 200 years old and was in need of strengthening. However whilst the strengthening works were being carried out, the River Clwyd experienced severe flooding in 2008 and the bridge suffered erosion to one foundation which caused significant damage to the bridge.
In 2009 the river was diverted away from the bridge and a specially designed propping system was put in place below the arch of the bridge to take its weight. The damaged foundation was then completely replaced and stainless steel reinforcing bars installed throughout the stone arch to strengthen it up to modern standards.
The bridge was reopened to traffic in October 2009 and Bob Humphreys, Denbighshire’s Bridge Manager, who managed the scheme, said: “It was a unique scheme which posed many challenges we do not routinely face.
“It was far more difficult than building a new bridge, but we have managed to save a bit of Denbighshires’ history and at the same time bring the bridge up to modern standards.”
The award ceremony was held in London at the Headquarters of the Institution of Civil Engineers. The President of the Institution presented the Award to Mr Humphreys.
The purpose of the Awards is to encourage, recognise and celebrate excellence and innovation in aspects of historic civil engineering conservation. The Award recognises conservation of the original structure, excellence in workmanship and competent management of the project. There are two levels of Award and Pont Telpyn was given the higher of the two.
Councillor Sharon Frobisher lead member for Environment and Sustainable Development said: “This award goes to show the exemplary work carried out to repair and enhance Pont Telpyn Bridge, ensuring it will be around for many, many years to come and I wish to congratulate Bob and his team as well as the contractors who carried their work to the highest standard.”
Local member, Councillor Gwilym Evans, praised Bob Humphreys’ management of the scheme and the finished result.
“Having kept in close contact with officers and contractors throughout the painstaking and intricate work to preserve and protect the bridge, it is extremely pleasing to see the bridge back to its former glory and I congratulate the team for an excellent restoration.”
