A NORTH-EAST engineering firm has continued to grow its activity in the bridge inspection and refurbishment market by securing a landmark project.

Cleveland Bridge UK’s ‘Bridge Rehabilitation Team’ will deliver a high-profile seven-month maintenance programme on Nottingham’s iconic Trent Bridge, which includes the application of 120m2 of gold leafing to the bridge fascia.

The Darlington-based company will also paint all steel and cast-iron elements of the bridge, covering more than 11,000m2, along with replacing a small number of damaged cast iron parapet components and completing some stonework repairs to the piers and abutments.

In addition to enhancing its cosmetics, the painting of the bridge, which is adjacent to the international cricket ground of the same name and Nottingham Forest’s City Ground, more importantly provides ongoing resistance to corrosion and degradation of the structure, securing the long-term load-carrying capacity of the bridge.

Part of a £1.1m investment, equally funded between Nottingham City Council and Nottinghamshire County Council, the project draws upon the depth of skills and proven expertise developed by Cleveland Bridge UK’s Rehabilitation Team.

With wide experience of project management, inspection and bridge rehabilitation worldwide, the team supports life extension programmes across the UK’s bridge network and internationally.

Jim Mawson, Head of Operational Delivery at Cleveland Bridge UK, said: “We are very proud to be awarded this prestigious refurbishment project for one of the UK’s most iconic city centre bridges.

“Working in close collaboration with the city and county councils, our rehabilitation team will apply its extensive experience to extend the lifespan of Trent Bridge, including having the honour of applying the highly-recognisable gold leaf that greets commuters and visitors to the city as they cross the river.”

Nottingham City Council’s Portfolio Holder for Transport, Cllr Adele Williams, said: “With its nearby cricket ground namesake known worldwide, Trent Bridge is an iconic gateway to the city which together with the County Council we are committed to maintaining and keeping looking its best.

“This re-painting will help to protect and preserve the bridge while freshening it up for many years to come.”