Brunel’s Swivel Bridge, Bristol, inspection, survey and renovation

Abstract

This paper describes the inspection of a derelict riveted wrought iron swivel bridge, designed by Brunel in 1849, by a team of volunteers that is hoping now to restore the bridge to working order. This inspection, dimensional survey and limited ground investigation supplemented some original drawings, recorded the existing condition and produced ‘as found’ drawings and a condition report of the bridge. Wrought iron ties were found to have been used to ‘prestress’ the main edge beams to reduce cantilever deflections.

The paper also describes some of challenges for the restoration of this bridge including: repairs to the ironwork; possible local strengthening; providing enhanced corrosion resistance for the iron within the closed sections; and, ensuring that the structure works as designed.

Keywords:

• Brunel
• bridge
• conservation

Notes

1 D. Greenfield, ‘Brunel’s Swivel Bridge – Its History and Context, The International Journal for the History of Engineering & Technology, forthcoming.

2 G. J. O. Wallis, ‘Brunel’s Swivel Bridge – Preservation Practicalities,’ The International Journal for the History of Engineering & Technology, forthcoming.

3 Historic England. Online index of listed buildings https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1207851 [accessed 30 April 2020].

4 SketchUp Pro. Trimble Navigation Ltd.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Robert A M Watkins

Bob Watkins is a retired structural and civil engineer who spent all of his working life as a consulting engineer. He specialised in the investigation, repair and strengthening of structures of many types. He is a chartered civil engineer, a Fellow of the Institution of Civil Engineers and is a retired Affiliate of the Institute of Historic Building Conservation with a masters degree in the conservation of historic buildings.