Bridges and highway structures

Our highways structures assets are varied in nature from large bridges on the principal road network to small arch bridges on country lanes.

In addition, there are numerous retaining walls of varying construction across the network.

• 271 Bridges
• 98 Highway Retaining walls
• 53 Culverts
• 46 Footbridges
• 23 Subways / Pipe Subways
• 4 Tunnels / Vehicle Underpasses
• Total structures: 495

We also have a legal maintenance liability for five historic swing bridges (three in Northwich, one in Frodsham and one at Acton Bridge) that are in the ownership of the Canal and River Trust.

How do we inspect our Highway Structures?

We carry out a ‘General Inspection’ of all our highway structures every two years.

A general inspection comprises a visual inspection of all visible parts of a structure that can be done safely from ground level viewing positions around the structure. It is not always possible to fully inspect bridges during these inspections for example if they cross deep water or a railway so we use divers or specialist access teams.

For inspections by water, we use specialised drone technology to ensure that these are undertaken safely.

We also, carry out more detailed ‘Principal Inspections’ of our larger more complex structures. A ‘Principal Inspection’ comprises a close examination, within touching distance, of all accessible parts of a structure. There are currently 41 bridges that have been identified as requiring a Principal Inspections.

How do we maintain our Highway Structures?

We manage our highway structures through a programme of planned inspections and maintenance works. The highway structures capital maintenance works are funded by central government.

We also carry out routine maintenance works to our structures (vegetation clearance and minor maintenance activities) and this is funded from the council’s local revenue budget.

The costs associated with accident damage to our structures are recovered from the driver’s insurance when driver details are available.