The existing Piffs Elm overbridge is suffering from thaumasite sulphate attack, which has corroded the bridge foundations beyond repair.

The sulphate attack is so severe that further investigations into the safety of the bridge foundations were not recommended because they could put the structure at risk.

A design for a replacement bridge to carry the A4019 has been completed and approved by the Highways Agency.

Its chosen contractor will demolish the existing four span voided cast insitu post-tensioned concrete deck and replace it with a two span (29.5m/21.6m) steel/concrete composite bridge.

Highway Agency engineers have ruled out part demolition of the Piffs Elm Bridge with A4019 traffic continuing on one half of the bridge because the existing bridge comprises one solid deck supporting both carriageways and the condition of the remaining supports cannot be guaranteed during the demolition.

Contractors have until 30 June to submit PQQs. Packs are available from eSourcing Portal: https://highways.bravosolution.co.uk