Thrussington bridge repaired by using 3D technology

3D technology has helped restore a crumbling historic bridge to its former glory. Walkers can once again use a closed off public footpath after modern methods were used to repair the 213-year-old Thrussington Mill Bridge.

Leicestershire County Council engineers scanned the bridge with a laser to create a 3D image to detect movement that could cause cracks.

The Rearsby – Hoby footpath, which is part of the Leicestershire Round long distance walking route, was temporarily diverted after cracks in the bridge began to widen, indicating it was becoming unsafe.

The £28,000 project involved partly re-building the bridge which was built in 1797 when the Wreake Navigation was opened.

At first, it was feared that that the old bridge would have to be demolished and replaced by a completely new structure.

However, new techniques have made it possible to re-use parts of the walkway, restoring the historic structure and making the job simpler and much more affordable.

After the 3D image was created, the bridge was dismantled, leaving only the basic arch standing. The arch was then ‘stitched together’ using an innovative technique, including a concrete layer with waterproofing on top.

The rest of the bridge was then reconstructed using some of the original materials.

Councillor Lesley Pendleton, Leicestershire County Council Cabinet Lead Member for Environment and Transport, said “We are delighted that the footpath is open once again and that the historic bridge was able to be restored using the latest technology, that has helped give better value for money.

”The Leicestershire Round is a popular walking route so we are pleased that people can once again follow its official course.

“We would also like to thank Brooksby Melton College for letting walkers use one of its permissive paths as an alternative route whilst the bridge was closed.

The bridge work had also to be planned to preserve wildlife and to ensure nothing restricted the flow of the River Wreake. A large scaffold truss was built around it to keep the work clear of the river.

The foundations of large granite stones, which may be the remains of an even older bridge, have been underpinned and re-pointed.

Find out more about Leicestershire’s Rights of Way at www.leics.gov.uk/paths