Engineering Firm Wins Major Contract to Replace Historic Devon Bridge
An engineering company with offices spanning Bristol, Cardiff, and Scotland has been awarded a substantial £9.7 million contract to replace a century-old bridge in Devon. Wills Bros will undertake the comprehensive works on the Baulk Bridge, located near Cullompton, over a 20-month period, with completion targeted for November 2027.
Historic Bridge in Poor Condition
The Baulk Bridge on the B3181 near Cullompton was originally constructed in 1924, making it one of Devon's oldest reinforced concrete bridges. Devon County Council, which approved the project last year and formally signed the contract in March, has declared the existing structure to be in "poor condition" and economically unviable for repair.
Councillor Dan Thomas, Devon County Council cabinet member for highways, emphasized the project's significance, stating, "The new bridge will not only secure a critical transport corridor but also deliver environmental and safety benefits for the local area and region as a whole."
New Bridge to Safeguard Vital Transport Link
The replacement bridge is designed with a 120-year lifespan and will be constructed on a realigned section of the B3181, approximately 30 metres downstream from the current structure. This strategic location aims to "safeguard a vital transport link" between Exeter and Cullompton, which also serves as a crucial diversion route for the M5 motorway.
According to council officials, the new alignment will allow the existing road to remain open for a "significant time" during construction, minimizing traffic disruptions and eliminating the need for a temporary bridge. The route currently accommodates around 5,000 vehicles daily, highlighting its importance to regional mobility.
Environmental and Infrastructure Enhancements
Upon completion, the existing bridge and redundant road section will be removed to improve flood conveyance and storage capacity. The comprehensive scheme includes several key enhancements:
- Highway-associated drainage systems
- A flood relief culvert
- Ecological habitat improvements
These measures are expected to deliver substantial environmental benefits alongside the upgraded transport infrastructure.
Competitive Bidding Process and Funding
Wills Bros emerged victorious from a competitive tender process, outperforming four other companies: Associated Asphalt Contracting, Montel Civil Engineering, and Suttle Projects. The project funding will be sourced from the council's Bridges and Structures Local Transport Capital Fund, ensuring dedicated financial support for this critical infrastructure renewal.
This major investment represents a significant step forward in maintaining and enhancing Devon's transport network, combining modern engineering with environmental stewardship to benefit both current and future generations.
