Client: Freyssinet
Principal Contractor: MJ Church
Works Commenced: February 2025
Aquaforce Concrete Services has been enlisted to undertake essential hydrodemolition works as part of a major refurbishment project for St Georges Interchange at M5 Junction 21. This key infrastructure provides the primary access point to Weston-Super-Mare, making its maintenance and longevity crucial. The project is scheduled for completion in 2027.
The primary objective of this project is to restore and enhance the structural integrity of the bridge while minimising disruption to traffic and ensuring safety for road users. The key challenges include:
- Precise removal of deteriorated concrete without damaging sound structures
- Working within a live motorway environment while maintaining traffic flow
- Managing and treating wastewater in compliance with environmental standard.
Aquaforce Concrete Services is deploying state-of-the-art hydrodemolition techniques to achieve precision cutting and removal of defective concrete. The scope of work includes:
- Selective concrete removal for structural repairs
- Bearing replacement and key structural enhancements
To minimise disruption, the project is being carried out in two key phases:
Phase One: Underway (November 2024 – Summer 2026)
- Repairs beneath the motorway while keeping the M5 open
- Use of hydrodemolition to prepare structural elements for reinforcement
Phase Two: Scheduled for Spring 2025 – Summer 2027 Bridge deck refurbishment, including:
- Northbound entry slip improvements with an additional lane
- Replacement of road surface and waterproofing
- Installation of new safety barriers
Hydrodemolition requires significant water resources, which are being managed responsibly. On-site water supply is supplemented with storage tanks provided by Aquaforce to manage both clean and wastewater. The wastewater is treated on site and collected for bulk disposal at an approved wastewater treatment facility, ensuring full compliance with environmental regulations and industry best practices.
By utilising hydrodemolition, Aquaforce is ensuring a precise, efficient, and environmentally-safe approach to structural repairs. This project will significantly improve the safety and functionality of St Georges Bridge, providing long-term benefits to road users and the local community.