Thomson Protective Coatings – Highways Bridge Refurbishment Project is Complete

Thomson Protective Coatings has finished specialist protective coating works on a UK highways bridge, blasting the steelwork to SA2.5 standard and protecting underbridge beams against corrosion under a split access arrangement.

Thomson Protective Coatings has successfully completed another specialist protective coatings project on the UK highways network, delivering essential maintenance works designed to provide long-term corrosion protection and extend the service life of a vital piece of highway infrastructure.

The project involved the refurbishment and protection of structural steelwork, with Thomson Protective Coatings undertaking a comprehensive programme of surface preparation and protective coating application.

As part of the scope of works, the structural steelwork was fully grit blasted to SA2.5 standard, providing the required surface profile and preparation ahead of the application of a new protective coating system. This process is a critical part of any successful steel protection project, ensuring that the substrate is suitably prepared to allow the coating system to achieve the required level of adhesion and long-term performance.

The works also included the protection of underbridge steel beams and soffit areas, helping to safeguard the structure against corrosion and the ongoing environmental conditions associated with its location within the UK highways network.

Given the importance of maintaining traffic flows and minimising disruption to road users, the project was delivered using a combination of access arrangements. Approximately 50% of the contract was completed under a full road closure, providing the team with unrestricted access to carry out the works safely and efficiently.

The remainder of the project was undertaken using scaffold access, complete with full encapsulation. This approach enabled the team to continue the refurbishment works while maintaining appropriate environmental controls and providing a safe and controlled working environment.

Quality and competency were central to the delivery of the project. All works were carried out by TTP-ICATS operatives, ensuring the specialist coating activities were undertaken by suitably trained and experienced personnel. The workforce operated under the supervision of Thomson Protective Coatings’ in-house ICorr Level 2 Coating Inspector, providing an additional layer of quality assurance throughout the project.

The combination of professional surface preparation, specialist protective coatings, controlled access arrangements and rigorous inspection ensured the completed works met the required standards and specifications.

The successful completion of the project provides the bridge’s structural steelwork with enhanced long-term protection against corrosion, helping to preserve the condition and longevity of the asset. With effective protective coating systems playing an important role in extending the life of infrastructure, projects such as this are essential in supporting the long-term sustainability and performance of the UK’s highways network.

The project is another example of Thomson Protective Coatings’ ability to deliver demanding and technically challenging works across the infrastructure sector. The company’s expertise extends across bridge refurbishment, highways infrastructure, storage tanks, rail assets and other complex steelwork projects, combining specialist surface preparation, high-performance protective coating systems, professional scaffolding and robust quality control.

With an experienced team and a focus on delivering work to the highest standards, Thomson Protective Coatings continues to support clients in protecting critical infrastructure and extending the operational life of valuable assets across the UK.

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