Meldrum Civil Engineering have refurbished the Ambulance Access Bridge that leads straight into the cardiac department at James Cook University Hospital.

The preparation work included removing the existing paint from the steelwork, stripping back the bridge to the concrete deck by planing off the existing tarmac and waterproofing, and removing all lighting and conduits underneath the bridge in preparation for new lighting to be installed.

The steelwork on the bridge was primed and re-painted, new “BRIDGE ENTRANCE” signage was installed by Serco, the gullies on top of the bridge were replaced, and new lighting and conduit underneath the bridge was installed.

Once the new waterproofing system had been installed on top of the bridge, a new wearing and surface course of tarmac was reinstated, with new red lining also being completed. In addition to this, the bridge expansion joint was replaced once the tarmac had been completed.

Special consideration was made to co-ordinate with the cardiac ward via radios during weeks 5-7, to allow works to be completed on programme, while also ensuring that the bridge could still be safely used by ambulances during this time.

Ben Emery, Trainee Project Manager, First Solo Project:

“Having progressed from being a work experience student 2-3 years ago with Meldrum, to now managing my own sites for the business, I’m over the moon to have completed my first stand-alone project.

I’m a local lad, having been born in James Cook myself, and having family members who work here, I’m very proud of the work we have done.

While the project was challenging given the sensitivity of the area, the final product has been rewarding to see, and it has given the hospital an improvement it deserves.

I hope to build on this achievement with Meldrum for many more years to come.”