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Restoration of Whorlton Bridge Progresses as Suspension Chains Removed
VolkerLaser Pushes Forward on Historic 193-Year-Old Bridge with Precision and Care
John Stephenson
November 13, 2024
What Happened
The careful restoration of Whorlton Bridge, a 193-year-old suspension bridge near Barnard Castle, is advancing steadily. Commissioned by Durham County Council, the project aims to restore the bridge’s original structure by dismantling and refurbishing each component of this scheduled ancient monument.
VolkerLaser’s team is now deep into dismantling the main suspension chains, a complex process managed through a specially commissioned catenary crane system.
Catch-up: Timeline of Key Milestones
Here’s a brief look at the work completed so far:
September 2024: VolkerLaser received the Temporary Works Permit to Load, authorising the first phase of dismantling. After over a year of planning and a radical shift in approach, the team commissioned the catenary crane system, critical to safely remove the bridge’s deck and structural components.
October 2024: The dismantling process officially began, with the crane carefully removing sections of the bridge’s carriageway and footpath decking, followed by structural timbers and bracing.
November 2024: The timber deck was fully removed despite challenging weather and river conditions. The team began dismantling the wrought iron suspension system, finding severe corrosion in the hanger pins and uncovering unique stonemason marks.
Today: The main suspension chains are now being removed using the crane system. Each part is tagged, logged, and carefully processed in an on-site workshop.
Why It Matters
Restoring Whorlton Bridge is about more than structural repairs:
The project underscores a commitment to preserving the UK's engineering heritage, blending historic authenticity with modern restoration techniques.
Local authorities aim to ensure the bridge’s future integrity, reusing original materials and color-matching paint to maintain its authentic look.
How They’re Doing It
The restoration approach combines engineering precision with historical preservation:
Piece-by-piece documentation: Each bridge component is individually tagged before removal.
Intensive restoration: Rusted parts are shot-blasted, tested for strength, and repainted for longevity.
On-site workshops: Components are processed and logged on-site to maintain oversight and control.
Preserving authenticity: Original materials are reused wherever possible to retain the bridge’s historical character.
By the Numbers
193 years: Age of Whorlton Bridge.
1,800 components: Each piece is carefully removed, inspected, and restored.
2025: Expected year for project completion and bridge reopening.
What They’re Saying
"It’s only right we treat the bridge with the respect it deserves".
"We are delighted to be in a position to begin the complex process of removing the 1,800 components on the bridge and ensuring as much of the structure as is physically possible can be retained and given a new lease of life,"
VolkerLaser project manager Lee Jackson credited the team’s extensive planning and dedication to overcoming the challenges of this intricate restoration.
Bottom Line
As work progresses on Whorlton Bridge, this project serves as a model for balancing historic preservation with modern engineering, giving new life to a piece of British engineering history.