Project Overview
Kilnbridge Structural Services Ltd (KSSL) was appointed by JB Riney to deliver specialist concrete repair and hydrodemolition works at Wadham Road Bridge in London. The project involved site setup, the removal of spalled and defective concrete from the bridge soffit, piers and abutments, and the reinstatement of all areas identified in the client’s condition survey. Due to the operational nature of the site, all works were completed under strict access controls and carefully managed work zones.
The Wadham Road Bridge project was delivered within a live rail environment, requiring strict access management and careful coordination of all activities to maintain safe working operations. Access to the structure was limited, with restricted and overgrown routes presenting logistical challenges for the movement of personnel, equipment and materials.
The scope of works included ultra-high-pressure (UHP) hydrodemolition to remove defective concrete from the bridge soffit, piers and abutments. These operations involved the use of specialist high-pressure equipment and work at height, requiring controlled working methods, robust safety management and strict exclusion zones throughout the programme.
Environmental compliance was a key consideration due to the nature of the hydrodemolition process. Measures were required to capture, contain and treat wastewater generated during the works, including pH monitoring and treatment prior to discharge, ensuring compliance with project and environmental requirements.
The project also required the delivery of high-quality structural repairs in accordance with specification requirements. This included achieving the specified 25mm concrete cover, undertaking delamination assessments and installing galvanic anodes with continuity checks to provide long-term corrosion protection and support the ongoing durability of the structure.
In addition, the team was required to balance technical requirements with budget considerations, assessing multiple repair solutions to identify the most effective and cost-efficient approach for the client while maintaining quality, safety and programme objectives.
KSSL developed a tailored repair strategy that considered multiple repair options to achieve the best outcome within the council’s budget. To ensure safe containment of the work area, a three-stage encapsulation system was implemented, consisting of double-netting curtains, mobile Heras-netted screens and encapsulated MEWPs and access towers. Strict exclusion zones were maintained at all times to protect both site personnel and the surrounding environment.
Hydrodemolition works were undertaken by specialist two-person teams in accordance with industry-compliant standards. Wastewater generated during the process was captured, treated through settlement tanks and carefully managed before discharge, ensuring full environmental compliance. Reinforcement was cleaned and primed before the installation of galvanic anodes, with continuity checks completed to verify the effectiveness of the corrosion protection system. Repairs were then completed using a combination of hand-applied and sprayed mortars, allowing the most suitable repair method to be selected for each area of remediation.
The project achieved the safe and controlled removal of defective concrete to the required depth, enabling high-quality, long-lasting structural repairs. All reinstatements were completed with the correct concrete cover and corrosion protection measures in place, helping to extend the service life of the bridge. Environmental compliance was maintained throughout through effective containment, wastewater capture and treatment systems, while comprehensive quality assurance records were produced to demonstrate compliance with project specifications. Repaired surfaces were reinstated to match the existing structure, delivering a consistent and durable finish. The works were successfully delivered on schedule with zero health and safety incidents through the coordinated efforts of multiple KSSL disciplines.
Conclusion
The successful delivery of the Wadham Road Bridge repairs demonstrates Kilnbridge’s ability to safely execute complex concrete repair and hydrodemolition projects in highly constrained environments. By combining specialist engineering expertise, rigorous environmental controls and innovative access solutions, KSSL delivered a durable, high-quality outcome with zero health and safety incidents. The project reinforces Kilnbridge’s reputation as a trusted partner for structural rehabilitation works, capable of extending asset life while maintaining the highest standards of safety, compliance and workmanship.