In 2016, the dramatic collapse and then clearance of an historic bridge in Worcestershire was the end to its 223 year history… but its final phase before demolition was recorded for posterity by SUMO Aerial Surveys.

An urgently needed replacement had to be built on the same site as the collapsed bridge. A detailed survey was required of the surviving structure in a hazardous and difficult position in the River Teme.

 

What were the challenges...

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• The collapsed structure was unsafe and inaccessible from the road and embankment.

• It was in need of urgent attention for clearance and replacement.

• Before imminent demolition, a highly accurate and detailed record was urgently needed so original elements of the bridge could be incorporated in the replacement design.

• There was very restricted access to the structure for conventional surveying technology.

 

How were they overcome.

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• SUMO Aerial Surveys carried out an initial reconnaissance of the site to determine what cost efficient and practical survey methodology could be conducted in the quickest time.

• A remotely controlled photogrammetric survey of the surviving structure was recommended which could be operated from a safe distance on the embankment.

• SUMO was instructed to carry out the survey and were on site within 2 days.

 

Costs and benefits...

 

The survey cost was less than £1,000.  It avoided the incumbent cost of the H&S requirements and planning for a survey from the river.

 

High resolution data survey data was delivered in 3 days. Structural engineers were then able to design a replacement bridge including elements of the old structure and to begin its demolition.

 

A 3D model of the data enabled a varied audience to visualise the site.