Angel Way Bridge: Transforming Infrastructure in Bargoed
As part of the £25m Greater Bargoed Community Regeneration Project, Angel Way was constructed to enhance connectivity and support the town’s revitalisation. A key feature of the new road was a large bridge crossing the Cardiff to Rhymney railway line.
Geoquest collaborated with Hochef Griffiths to design an innovative 150m long precast concrete arch, offering a cost-effective alternative to the originally proposed abutment structure. The arch minimised excavation near the railway slope and reduced overall project costs and environmental impact.
The arch was constructed in segments, with two sections joined at the crown by an in-situ stitch before backfilling, creating a 15m overall span. Nighttime possessions of the railway ensured minimal disruption during construction.
This project posed unique challenges. The arch had to follow the railway’s curved alignment and accommodate a sewer pipe crossing within the tunnel. Geoquest incorporated specialised holes in the design to allow the pipe to pass safely. Additionally, the foundations required innovative solutions: one side rested on glacial till with spread foundations, while the other, on colliery spoil, necessitated piled foundations to manage differential settlement.
The 300mm-thick precast arch represented significant cost savings and a reduced environmental footprint compared to traditional structures. To enhance efficiency further, the arch spandrel and wingwalls were constructed using Geoquest’s Reinforced Earth ® system.
Angel Way Bridge showcases Geoquest’s ability to overcome engineering challenges with innovative, sustainable, and cost-effective solutions.
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