Illustrative design of an open view of the Great Yarmouth Third River Crossing.
Summary
Roughan & O’Donovan is leading the detailed design of the Great Yarmouth third river crossing project in Norfolk on behalf of BAM Farrans, a joint venture between BAM Nuttall and Farrans Construction.
Our partners are Hardesty & Hanover, who provide global expertise in moveable bridges, and Norfolk-based architecture firm, Pro:works.
Our team has extensive experience in:
- design of moveable structures
- design of bridges in tidal rivers
- deep foundation design
- integration of permanent and temporary works
- design of urban highway schemes
Solution
The main feature of the scheme is a 50m clear span twin bascule bridge providing a new link across the River Yare in Norfolk to ease traffic congestion, reduce journey times and improve journey reliability.
Additional features include:
- junctions with the A47 to the west and South Denes Road to the east
- dual carriageway approach roads
- two single span bridges
- reinforced earth pile-supported approach embankments
- feature landscaping on the quayside to create a new public realm
- flood protection works
Not only will the bridge make getting around so much easier for many people currently living and working in the borough but it will support the town’s key industries.
Graham Plant
Deputy leader at Norfolk County Council and Great Yarmouth Borough Council
Development consent order
As the scheme is classed as a 'nationally significant infrastructure project' (NSIP), Norfolk County Council submitted an application to the government's Planning Inspectorate on 30 April 2019. The application integrated BAM Farrans, ROD and H&H’s successful tender design for the structures with the council's specimen design for the highway works.
Following an examination during which the Applicant, Statutory Consultees and Interested Parties were given the opportunity to provide evidence to the Examining Authority, a recommendation was made to the Secretary of State on 24 June 2020.
Development consent was granted on 24 September 2020, clearing the way for BAM Farrans JV to start construction in early 2021.
The opening of the new link is planned for early 2023.
Challenge
The scheme is centered in an operational marine port, with commercial and residential properties along the approaches to the river crossing.
Poor soil conditions and low-lying ground add further complexity.
Services provided:
- Bridge engineering design
- Structural engineering design
- Highways engineering design
- Geotechnical
- Environmental engineering
- Drainage
- Tender design
- Temporary works
- Electrical
