Concrete Bridge Design and Construction in the United Kingdom

Bridging has been the key element in the development of road systems. The scope and range of solutions has depended on the effective exploitation of the most economical materials available. The growth of span and load‐carrying capacity is reflected in the moves leading to the use of concrete. The design and construction of concrete bridges has altered rapidly during recent decades. This has been brought about by better analytical methods, better planning, and increased mechanization in the construction of the works. However, these steps have also brought in their wake new problems for the engineer, contractor, and supervisor. This paper shows the different approaches on a number of factors. The first part shows the design of bridges in classes for span and type with reference to the pertinent factor for that design. The second part looks at the contractor's approach to construction and illustrates the need for flexibility in the construction method in order to meet contract deadlines. The third part considers the role of the supervising engieer, who achieves a balance between the designer's intentions and the contractor's proposals.