Futureproofing a Key Bristol Link: Trench Lane Overbridge Works
Ben Hallett
08/09/25
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Trench Lane Overbridge carries a local road over the M4 motorway, creating a vital connection for east-west traffic in the Bristol area. Positioned near the M4 corridor, it supports both local residential and commercial access as well as traffic transitioning to and from the motorway.
Given its strategic location, the bridge plays a crucial role in local connectivity, linking surrounding communities, serving access routes around the M4, and maintaining smooth traffic flow.
As part of the National Highways SDF Framework in Area 2, CRL has been carrying out specialist works to reconstruct the verges at each corner of the Trench Lane Overbridge. The project forms part of a wider refurbishment of the structure led by M J Church.
Given its strategic location, the bridge plays a crucial role in local connectivity, linking surrounding communities, serving access routes around the M4, and maintaining smooth traffic flow.
As part of the National Highways SDF Framework in Area 2, CRL has been carrying out specialist works to reconstruct the verges at each corner of the Trench Lane Overbridge. The project forms part of a wider refurbishment of the structure led by M J Church.
The verges required a carefully engineered approach due to longstanding issues with water ingress through the movement joints. Working collaboratively with National Highways, a bespoke design was developed to resolve the problem and futureproof the structure.
The presence of multiple services running through the structure added further complexity. To overcome this, CRL built custom formwork that enabled precise concrete placement, protecting the services while allowing for structural movement. The design also incorporated pre-formed rebates to ensure new surface-level movement joints could be installed effectively.
The works took place in August, with the full scheme scheduled for completion by mid-September.
The presence of multiple services running through the structure added further complexity. To overcome this, CRL built custom formwork that enabled precise concrete placement, protecting the services while allowing for structural movement. The design also incorporated pre-formed rebates to ensure new surface-level movement joints could be installed effectively.
The works took place in August, with the full scheme scheduled for completion by mid-September.
