Tower Bridge is an iconic symbol of London, an image recognised around the world. When repairs to the lifting sections, walkways and approaches became necessary, only the best materials would do. Contractor Infallible Systems chose IKO Permatrack to renovate the walkways, approaches and tower bases.
Tower Bridge was built over 120 years ago to ease road traffic while maintaining river access to the busy docks. Built with giant moveable roadways that lift up for passing ships, it is to this day considered an engineering marvel. The bridge was closed in September 2016 for three months while repairs were made. The high-profile job was completed a week ahead of schedule, allowing the bridge to re-open before Christmas.
John Chapman of Infallible gives further details: “We knew the schedule was achievable if the weather was reasonable, but unfortunately when we started on the main piers, we found the asphalt we had to remove was 160mm thick, much more than expected. We replaced it with a 10mm IKO waterproofing layer and IKO Permatrack Bridge Surfacing to an average depth of 30mm. In total we broke out, cleared, and then reinstated 800 tonnes of material – all without having any lorries or machinery on the bridge due to weight restrictions!”
Infallible Systems has been an IKO customer since the specialist contractor was founded more than 30 years ago. John adds: “The product is excellent, the after-service is fantastic and IKO’s technical help with the initial spec is invaluable.”
The Tower Bridge project has been shortlisted in the Mastic Asphalt/Hot Melt category in the NFRC Awards 2017. Winners will be announced on 19th May.
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