Bristol Metrobus: Supporting Growth with Smart Infrastructure
The Bristol Metrobus project is a key element of a transport infrastructure improvement package designed to drive economic growth and improve public transport links across the West of England. This initiative addresses critical issues such as poor connectivity in South Bristol, long bus journey times, and high car use in the North Fringe and the M32 motorway corridor.
A crucial section of the Metrobus route crosses the Portishead freight railway via the Portishead Rail Skew Bridge, supported by north and south approach ramps. The unguided busway route traverses the pedestrian footpath and cycleway underpass at a skew angle of 30 degrees.
The bridge deck is supported by in-situ concrete bankseats on Reinforced Earth® bridge abutments, which are designed to carry the full bridge deck loads.
The approach ramps and abutments utilise a flexible panel arrangement with vertical slip joints, enabling the structure to adapt to potential differential settlement between the abutment and wall sections. This innovative design:
- Simplifies construction by allowing all work to be performed from behind the panels.
- Facilitates easy integration of edge protection during panel installation.
The integration of Geoquest technology ensures durability and adaptability, supporting the Metrobus system’s goals of improving transport efficiency and reducing environmental impact.
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