Winvic appointed to help safeguard bridge

Plans to strengthen a key County Durham road bridge are moving forward after a contractor was appointed to design works aimed at protecting the structure from erosion.

Winvic Construction has been appointed by Durham County Council to design improvements to Witton-le-Wear Bridge, which carries the A68 over the River Wear near the village of Witton-le-Wear.

The project is Winvic’s first secured through the North East Procurement Organisation (NEPO) Framework, with the contractor working alongside design consultant Mott MacDonald.

Built around 1970, the bridge comprises two reinforced concrete arched beams supporting a concrete slab deck.

Changes to the river alignment caused by an upstream gravel bank have resulted in erosion around the riverbanks and southern embankment near the bridge pier, including localised undercutting and damage.

Design work is now underway and is expected to be completed by summer 2027.

Winvic will assess options for structural repairs and measures to protect the southern embankment from further erosion, with the northern pier and embankment also being assessed.

The final solution will be determined following detailed river modelling, durability assessments and cost analysis.

Rob Cook, Winvic’s managing director for civils and infrastructure, said: “Securing our first scheme through the NEPO framework with Durham County Council is a significant milestone for our Civils and Infrastructure sector. 

“The Witton-Le-Wear Bridge is a key route on the A68, and we are proud to support Durham County Council in strengthening this vital link for the local community and the region.

“We look forward to working collaboratively with Durham County Council and our design partner Mott MacDonald to deliver a durable, long-term solution that benefits residents, businesses and regional connectivity for years to come.”

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