en.Wedoany.com Reported - UK-based Story Contracting, on behalf of Aberdeenshire Council, has completed critical scour protection works at the A98 Banff Bridge, a project lasting nine months. Designed by John Smeaton and completed in 1779, this Category A listed structure required scour protection for six piers and two abutments due to rising river levels and climate-related pressures. The bridge had previously been identified as being at risk, and this project was deemed crucial for ensuring its long-term integrity.
The project was delivered in two phases, including the installation of a 250-meter-long cofferdam to divert river flow and provide safe access for in-river works. Working within the River Deveron presented numerous technical and environmental challenges, requiring careful planning, environmental mitigation, and close collaboration throughout. Works involved removing existing unstable material, riverbed preparation, and installing a comprehensive scour protection system. The team installed over 2,900 rock mattress units, secured with more than 3,600 anchors, while 280 sheet piles were used to construct the cofferdam system. These works were carefully sequenced to manage river flow velocities, minimize environmental impact, and ensure safe construction in a live water environment.
Environmental protection was a constant priority, with measures implemented to protect sensitive ecological receptors, including fish habitats and protected species. Regular ecological monitoring and close liaison with stakeholders ensured compliance throughout all project phases. The project also achieved an excellent health and safety performance, recording zero accidents or incidents throughout the entire works. The council stated this reflects the strong safety culture maintained by the Story team, supported by continuous briefings, hazard reporting, and proactive risk management.
Upon completion of the works, a project close-out event was held at the Banff Bridge site, attended by representatives from Aberdeenshire Council, Story Contracting, and design consultant Amey, as well as wider project team members. Councillor Alan Turner, Chair of Aberdeenshire Council's Infrastructure Services Committee, stated that this innovative scour protection approach, using rock-filled mattresses with driven anchors, will protect this council asset from scour risk for decades. James O'Sullivan, Senior Project Manager at Story Scotland, noted that through collaboration with Aberdeenshire Council, the supply chain, and stakeholders, the team successfully delivered this critical project, providing 100 years of scour protection for the bridge. Throughout the project, the Story team focused on delivering positive outcomes for the local community, generating over £35,000 in quantified social value.
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