We're replacing the Waimakariri Gorge Bridge Deck. The new deck replacement forms part of the long-term upgrade of the bridge, that is jointly owned by the Waimakariri and Selwyn District Councils. Fulton Hogan has been appointed as the contractor to carry out the works.
Work has started on disestablishing the site. We thank you for your continued patience.
To read the full list of previous updates visit - https://www.selwyn.govt.nz/services/roads-And-transport/road-works-and-closures/waimakariri-gorge-bridge-deck-replacement
In the meantime please take care around the work site and if you would like any further information about this project please contact transportation@selwyn.govt.nz
Chipseal loss on Gorge Bridge
Residents have raised questions about the chipseal loss on the Waimakariri Gorge Bridge.
Simply, the design of this historic bridge includes joints between the deck plates which is where some of this loss is occurring. This is normal but we are monitoring the situation through winter.
The bridge was built for road and rail and opened in 1877. The structure has steel components that supports a deck which is made of structural plywood, with a short length of concrete deck at either end.
The plywood deck is made up of 47 panels which provides the ability to accommodate flex at the joints between the panels, which is normal for a structure of this nature.
When the bridge was designed, the design included the application of a special tape to be placed on the joints between the deck panels prior to being surfaced, bitumen was then applied with a fabric layer, with a further 2 chip seal layers installed to provide this surface which is flexible.
Chip loss at the joints and the transition to the concrete deck is common and will be monitored over the next three months. Further work will be undertaken on the joints post-winter, prior to the programmed full reseal in the Summer of 2024/25. This will provide ongoing protection to the structural plywood deck.