Jarrow Road Bridge
When critical rail infrastructure shows signs of distress, precision engineering and decisive action are paramount. Our recent work at Jarrow Road Bridge perfectly illustrates TES's capability to deliver complex P-way solutions, combining technical prowess with a collaborative spirit to restore full operational integrity.
The Challenge: A Bridge Under Pressure
Jarrow Road Bridge had reached a critical state. With life-expired timbers severely rotted, the bridge was experiencing significant degradation, leading to the implementation of Emergency Speed Restrictions (ESRs) on both the Up and Down lines (Track Affected by Hazard - TAH). This situation demanded immediate intervention to prevent further deterioration and ensure the safety and reliability of train movements across this structure.
TES's Collaborative Solution
Commissioned by Murphy's to undertake the Permanent Way (P-way) works, TES engaged in close collaboration from the outset. We worked directly with Murphy's to refine the original timeline, ensuring seamless coordination between the civil engineering elements of the project and our P-way activities. This integrated planning approach was key to a successful, streamlined delivery.
Our comprehensive methodology began with robust planning and safety protocols:
Implementation of the Safe System of Work.
Thorough Preliminary Survey & Setting Out.
Precise Pre & Post Heights & Staggers and Bonding Surveys.
Full site mobilisation, including welfare arrangements, lighting, and efficient material delivery to the compound.
Deployment of essential Health & Safety signage.
Precision Execution: The Scope of Works
Our teams executed a meticulous scope of works, designed to replace the failing components while integrating new, resilient elements:
Safe removal and re-instatement of S&T (Signalling & Telecommunications) cables and magnets.
Systematic removal of existing rails, smalls, and timbers.
Installation of 39 new, precisely canted timbers.
Re-instatement of existing rails, with the addition of new closure rails where required, ensuring compliance with current standards.
Replacement of all associated smalls.
Precision lifting and packing of the ballasted ends to achieve the required design levels and new cant transitions.
Box-in to a high-quality finish.
Comprehensive stressing of both the Up and Down roads.
Rigorous CRT (Controlled Resting Temperature) Management and continuous track monitoring, utilising void meters to record any track disturbance or dynamic movement under load.
Completion of As-built documentation and formal Track Handback.
Technical Excellence: Engineering Solutions Beyond Expectation
At TES, our Project Managers possess a diverse range of technical capabilities, encompassing Health & Safety, Design & Technical Compliance, GRIP, PACE & AMP Processes, Dilapidation Surveys, and expert Track Handback. Our approach on Jarrow Road Bridge demonstrated this prowess at every stage.
During the planning phase, we engaged directly with the designers to address a critical aspect: the track's cant transition was originally situated within the bridge. Through collaborative discussion, we successfully advocated for adjusting the ballasted transitions at each end of the bridge, allowing the track to run through the bridge at a consistent, regular cant on both roads. This design adjustment significantly enhances track performance and longevity.
For installation and verification, we deployed advanced techniques:
Heights were meticulously verified using 2D lasers and relative levels.
Alignment was precisely confirmed using 6fts and offset measurements to the bridge structure.
Our cutting-edge Diamond S2 recording trolley was pushed through on both roads, providing irrefutable proof of gauge, cant, twists, and gauge variations – ensuring the highest levels of track geometry compliance.
Despite a pre-planned Temporary Speed Restriction implemented by Murphy's post-works, the quality of TES's work meant the track was fit for a full line speed handback, with all vertical and horizontal alignments well within the strict limits of the Network Rail NR/L2/TRK/2102 standard.
Works concluded with the thorough completion of as-builts, track geometry data, S&T SMTH slips, and A-G paperwork, all signed by a TES Handback Engineer and verified by the Track CRE. These crucial documents were sent directly to the client from site, ensuring compliance with Network Rail's new build tolerances (NR/L2/TRK/2102).
Restoring Confidence on the Tracks
The successful renewal of Jarrow Road Bridge exemplifies TES's ability to deliver technically complex P-way projects. Our commitment to proactive problem-solving, meticulous execution, and the application of cutting-edge verification technology ensures that every asset we touch is left safer, more reliable, and operating at its full capacity.