Modernizing Ancient Bridges.
Page 8
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In 1914 the Worcestershire County Council was compelled to strengthen the historic bridge at Ecking,ton, near Pershore, which was badly affected by increasing loads and fast, heavy vehicles. The bridge was built in the 10th century. In order to preserve its ancient appearance the work of strengthening by means of ferroconcrete was undertaken, the cost being very low Lnd the result satisfactory. After ten years' heavy wear the bridge shows no signs of further weakness.
A similar method was employed ,to put the Mythe bridge—an iron openribbed structure—over the Severn at Tewkesbury in a condition to withstand modern traffic. The method was unusual in the case of an iron bridge, but quite successful, and the cost was only 1893. It was built by Telford in 1826, and cost £35,000.
Bewdley Bridge, a fine example of
Ashlar masonry constrnetion spanning the River Severn at Bewdley, is to be likewise strengthened. This is another bridge built by Telford in 1823. The preservation of an old bridge always mates a-keen appeal.