Plowman Craven was appointed by the principal contractor to deliver automatic track and embankment monitoring in support of a new 43m × 4m weathering steel Warren Truss bridge installation.
The bridge formed a key connection within a major residential development, linking two sides of the scheme across an operational railway line.
With piling works and bridge abutment construction taking place near live rail infrastructure, continuous monitoring was essential to ensure that construction activities did not adversely affect track alignment or embankment stability.
The bridge was successfully installed on Christmas Day 2025, without disruption to railway services.
The project required the installation of approximately 70 wireless tilt meters across:
The client’s primary concern was risk mitigation. Piling activities carried the potential to:
A key constraint was programme.
Installation was carried out during night shifts and on steep embankments, adding further logistical and safety challenges.
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Plowman Craven delivered a rapid-response automatic remote monitoring solution designed to meet rail compliance standards.
Our approach included:
Critically, our ability to mobilise equipment and technicians at short notice ensured that monitoring was in place ahead of the confirmed possession. Without this, the client would have risked missing their track access window and delay the wider development programme.
While the technology itself was tried and tested, our responsiveness, flexibility and operational readiness were key differentiators. We were able to react quickly, safely and compliantly under significant time pressure.
Continuous monitoring safeguarded against embankment failure or track movement during piling and abutment construction, reducing the risk of service disruption and ensuring compliance with rail standards.
Live data feeds and alarm thresholds enabled the client to immediately identify and respond to any potential movement, supporting informed decision-making during critical construction phases.
Monitoring installation was completed within an accelerated timeframe, enabling works to proceed as scheduled and ensuring the bridge lift could take place during the planned Christmas Day possession.
Monitoring remained fully operational throughout piling, abutment construction and bridge installation.
The project reinforced Plowman Craven’s capability in delivering compliant, rapid-deployment rail monitoring solutions within live operational environments.
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