JMS installs bridge deck waterproofing and high friction surfacing on the new Renfrew Bridge over the River Clyde

When Renfrewshire Council decided to regenerate the Clyde waterfront, they opted to construct a new bridge over the River Clyde to help create a connection point for locals. They appointed GRAHAM to deliver it on their behalf, who identified it needed a contractor who could install a waterproofing and high friction surfacing system on the new link. With a reputation for speed and experience in this area, they reached out to the experts at JMS, part of WJ Group, for their input.

Building bridges

As part of the Clyde Waterfront and Renfrew Riverside project, Renfrewshire Council constructed a bridge across the river to create a new connection for businesses, cyclists and pedestrians. The project is funded by the £385m Glasgow City Deal which aims to improve connectivity and economic growth in the area.

To ensure the longevity of the new bridge and its suitability for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians, GRAHAM sought external expertise to install a high friction surfacing and bridge deck waterproofing system. A highly skid resistant surface was needed to ensure safety for all users of the bridge, helping to avoid any incidents that may occur due to loss of grip.

The waterproofing is required to prevent long term damage from corrosion, without it the bridge would start to show damage over time from the continuous waterflow resulting in rusted steel components and cracks in the concrete. This could cause the bridge to eventually become unsuitable for use and result in costly repairs.

Due to its reputation of completing high-quality work within a quick timeframe, as well as prior experience, they chose JMS to complete the work. With the team onboard, it set out to support GRAHAM and help Renfrewshire Council create a long-lasting asset for the community.

The main challenges the JMS team had to contend with were the tight delivery timescales. To combat this and the limited space, whilst the initial construction of the bridge took place in the Netherlands JMS began their part of the scheme there. Once it was completed within the specifications of phase one, one-half of the bridge had the waterproofing and high friction surfacing installed, whilst for the other half the concrete and steel components were coated in a primer to stop the structure from corroding. It was then transported by ship to the River Clyde.

When in place in Renfrew, the JMS team removed the holding primer from 2,222m². Using ride-on blast machines, the steel on the bridge was cleaned to Swedish Standard Classification SA 2.5, meaning any rust or foreign matter was removed. To ensure that every inch was covered, the JMS team employed a variety of preparation equipment, including pedestrian blast machines and hand grinders.

To deliver the skid resistance for users, JMS applied Bimagrip LS. Due to the speed of application and excellent durability, this surface coating has proven successful for multiple bridge projects with a long track record. This system means the new Renfrew bridge is protected from water damage by the river below as well as ensuring all road users have good skid resistance during use.

Connecting the community

Now the bridge waterproofing and skid resistance surfacing is in place, the new crossing is expected to be opened to the community in Autumn 2024.

Josh Workman, Director at JMS added:

“Projects such as the Renfrew Bridge just go to show the importance of measures such as waterproofing to protect steel and concrete from water erosion. Damage from the elements can have a costly impact on infrastructure and significantly reduce its lifespan.
“Thanks to our team’s ability to work within tight timescales, we were able to complete our work on time so that the new bridge is ready to be opened this year. Our prior experience working on these types of projects meant that we knew exactly what products and methods would be required to ensure the new crossing will last for years to come.”