Streets

The Mechanical, Electrical and Structures Team is responsible for looking after bridges, footbridges, subways and other highway structures. As well as the 186 bridges in Medway, it maintains 140 registered retaining walls, many of which support part of the highway, and tunnels ranging from small pipe culverts to the Medway Tunnel. The council also maintains sign gantries across the highway that advise drivers of their route.

All structures should have a recorded inspection every two years.  Medway Council’s policy is to inspect them every 15 months. A chartered engineer carries out a more detailed principal inspection every six years. Results from all inspections carried out form the basis of routine maintenance programmes. Regular routine repairs include:

• brickwork repointing;
• bridge deck waterproofing and resurfacing;
• repainting of steelwork;
• replacement of expansion joints;
• concrete repairs;
• subway cleaning.

Bridges are designed to last up to 120 years, if regularly maintained. Strengthening and refurbishing the structures extends their life up to 150 years.

The council manages the routing of abnormal load movements, to ensure the loads can safely pass through or under highway structures. The council also monitors any works carried out by others on or over structures, to ensure the safety of highway users.

^ (back to top)