CRL Delivers Essential Cathodic Protection Upgrade on M1 River Avon Crossing
The M1 motorway serves as a key route linking London to Leeds, where it merges with the A1(M) near Aberford, providing onward access to Newcastle. It holds the distinction of being the first motorway in the UK built to connect major cities.
As part of the wider repair and cathodic protection works on the River Avon Bridge carrying the M1 Motorway overhead, CRL has delivered a complex and safety-focused solution to a challenging engineering problem. The works required extensive overhead drilling to depths of up to 590 mm, using 9 kg drills over a period of up to three months. This presented not only significant physical demands but also heightened risks related to operator fatigue, musculoskeletal strain, and Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS).
The nature of the structure required precision drilling through the soffit, an area with highly restricted access, necessitating compact, powerful, and highly specialised equipment.
In response to these challenges, our supply chain partners, UK Diamond Drilling Limited, developed a bespoke track-mounted drilling system that has proven instrumental to the project’s success. This innovative rig supports the full weight of the drilling equipment, allowing the operator to engage the drill by simply rotating a lever. This not only minimises physical strain, but also significantly reducing vibration exposure. It’s a brilliant example of health and safety innovation in action, enabling the works to be completed efficiently, accurately, and above all, safely.
The custom-designed low-profile drilling rig enabled accurate, high-torque overhead drilling, while its secure anchoring system and integrated vibration-control features ensured stability and consistency. To support the health and safety of operatives, all equipment was chosen with vibration isolation in mind, complemented by rigorous HAVS monitoring, operator training, and ongoing compliance checks. Operators were trained on the bespoke system and worked from scaffold platforms, where the rig was anchored to maintain control and precision.
Ahead of drilling, cover meter surveys were carried out to identify the position and depth of the reinforcing. This was to ensure that the correct depth was reached, and no reinforcement was damaged. Post-drilling inspections confirmed that alignment and depth targets were consistently met, and structural engineers verified that the concrete and reinforcement remained fully intact.
The project was delivered on time and without any safety incidents, a testament to the planning, innovation, and collaboration involved. Working closely with National Highways and delivery partner VolkerLaser, CRL ensured that all works met or exceeded specification and quality standards.
This project not only reinforces the structural resilience of a vital UK transport route but also highlights the value of forward-thinking engineering solutions and collaborative working. The success of the M1 River Avon Bridge scheme stands as a model for how safety, innovation, and technical expertise can combine to deliver infrastructure renewal at the highest standard.
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