Emergency Repairs: Newydd Bridge, Trecastle
Rapid Response and Structural Stabilisation for Powys County Council
Kaymac Marine & Civil Engineering was commissioned by Powys County Council to deliver urgent remedial works at Newydd Bridge in Trecastle—an essential rural crossing impacted by significant structural and environmental challenges.
The Challenge:
A substantial build-up of debris, combined with a failure of the bridge’s cutwater and notable riverbed scour, posed an immediate risk to the structure’s integrity and public safety. Swift intervention was required to stabilise the bridge and enable its safe reopening.
Our Rapid Response
Mobilising quickly to site, our team implemented a coordinated programme of works to address the issues head-on. Initial activities focused on:
- Removing large volumes of debris from the watercourse
- Installing temporary stabilisation measures, including strops and bracing
- Protecting the failed cutwater with membranes and geomesh to prevent further deterioration
- Gaining the necessary permits from Natural Resources Wales
This early intervention ensured the structure was secured while longer-term solutions were developed.
Delivering Practical, Engineered Solutions
Following site clearance and assessment, Kaymac undertook detailed investigative works, including trial holes to assess riverbed conditions. With no bedrock identified, we designed and installed a robust scour protection system using:
- Submerged rock bags to stabilise the riverbed
- Layered rock mattresses to reinforce and protect the cutwater
- Integrated tying systems to ensure long-term resilience
These measures were carefully installed within a live water environment, demonstrating our expertise in complex marine and riverine conditions.
Enabling Safe Reopening
In addition to the permanent remedial works, Kaymac was appointed to design and install a temporary works solution to facilitate the bridge reopening.
This included the installation of an RMD Megashor modular propping system, providing critical structural support to the bridge deck and beams. The system was installed with precision beneath the central pier, ensuring:
- Immediate load relief to compromised elements
- A safe working platform for future permanent repairs
- Controlled reopening of the bridge to restricted traffic
Temporary traffic management measures, including width and weight restrictions, were also implemented to maintain public safety.
A Demonstration of Agility and Expertise
This project highlights Kaymac’s ability to respond rapidly to emerging infrastructure challenges by combining in-house engineering capabilities with practical site delivery. From emergency stabilisation through to engineered temporary works, our team provided a seamless, end-to-end solution under challenging conditions.
As evidenced throughout the project, our proactive approach and technical expertise ensured the bridge was stabilised efficiently, protecting both the asset and the local community.
