GOBBINS COASTAL PATH RECONSTRUCTION
Case Studies / GOBBINS COASTAL PATH RECONSTRUCTION
Main Contractor
Mclaughlin & Harvey Construction
Client
Larne Borough Council
Engineer
Design & Build – Doran Consulting
PROJECT SUMMARY
The original Coastal Path, which was linked by a series of spectacular metal bridges, was designed in 1902 as a commercial venture to attract passengers to use the rail link between Belfast and Whitehead. The path was closed to the public in 1954, and fell into a state of disrepair, with many of the original metalwork structures and rails damaged or collapsed because of rust and the action of the sea.
In its day the coastal path was more popular than the Giant’s Causeway, and in 2015 it was hoped that the £6m restoration would return the attraction to its former glory for a new generation to enjoy.
THE CHALLENGE
Works included the installation of approximately 1km of new coastal path, new hand railings, and 20 new bridge structures; including the replication of the famous tubular hoop bridge.
SDG were contacted by both McLaughlin & Harvey and Doran Consulting to seek advice on Sliding Bearings for the bridge structures.
OUR SOLUTION
Having built a substantial working relationship with Calenberg Engineering over the years, we were happy to partner on a new project requiring an innovative technical proposal.
With the assistance of their experienced engineers, they recommended the use of Civalit Sliding Bearings, Reinforced Elastomeric Sliding Bearings, and Cross-Tensile Reinforced Elastomeric Sliding Bearings.
THE RESULT
SDG supplied the bespoke bearings, each to be installed under the base plates of each structural element where they will work to take up loads, movements, and most importantly – prolong the life of the structure.
Calenberg bearings work to allow for targeted load transfer, creation of movement joints, and protection against damage caused by deformation due to thermal effects.
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