MGF supported Network Rail and Story Contracting on the Exxon Bowling Western Underpass works, located in Bowling, West Dumbartonshire, where a new 2500 tonne reinforced concrete underpass was constructed off-line prior to installation on the Christmas Railway blockade in 2025. The underpass is as part of a wider multi million pound scheme to deliver improved transport infrastructure and unlock the potential of a disused industrial site to attract new developers and future investment in the area.
The structure was constructed offline away from the live railway and needed to be driven into its final position during a Christmas blockade possession using Self-Propelled Modular transporters, meaning the structure had to be fully supported to prevent any deflection whilst being moved into place. Ensuring the reinforced concrete walls and bases remained stable during the slide was essential to protect the integrity of the bridge and keep the possession on programme.
Safe Bridge Slide for the Exxon Bowling Western Underpass Works
Working with multiple industry experts to identify and provide an innovative lifting solution
MGF worked closely with Story Contracting and heavy lifting specialist Mammoet to ensure the propping system aligned perfectly with the load paths of the new reinforced concrete structure and the positioning requirements of the self-propelled modular trailers (SPMT’s). This coordination was critical, as the propping had to be set at precise centres and heights to withstand significant axial loads while also matching the geometry of the SPMT’s used for the bridge move.
Building on a similar solution that we previously supplied to Story Contracting at Ravenscraig West Coast Mainline Crossing, MGF reviewed the reinforced concrete drawings, load cases and trailer layouts before developing a temporary works design that avoided the need to drill into the fair-faced concrete. The propping arrangement comprised four 300 Series Cross Struts equipped with 600kN Hydraulic Rams, supported by UniShore® framing to lock everything securely into position.
MGF’s design was checked by Story Contracting’s temporary works consulting engineers, and the system was supplied ahead of the possession to allow the contractor to assemble and test the setup in advance of the bridge slide.
MGF delivered a robust and precise propping solution that ensured the new reinforced concrete bridge could be slid into position safely and without movement during the rail possession. The use of 300 Series Struts in combination with UniShore® framing provided a reliable, non-intrusive support system that met the contactor’s requirements and avoided damage to the fair-faced concrete.
The bridge move proceeded exactly to plan, with the propping system performing as intended and the works completing within the possession window. The compatibility of the system, with Mammoet’s SPMT trailers and the speed of installation, provided clear benefits to the contractor, enabling them to carry out a complex bridge slide smoothly and safely.
UniShore® Heavy is a heavy-duty, modular shoring and propping system with class leading performance for the support and jacking of …
UniShore® Medium is a medium-duty, modular shoring and propping system that can be handled manually when necessary, combined with bending …
UniShore® Light is a lightweight, modular shoring and propping system that balances the need to minimise component weight, reducing risk …
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