TfNSW engaged CaSE to provide a reference design for an access platform to repair and strengthen the halving joints on Stockton bridge.
The Stockton Bridge project is vital for the Newcastle community, connecting Newcastle with the Tilligery and Tomaree peninsulas in Port Stephens. With over 19,000 vehicles crossing daily, it supports significant urban, industrial, and tourist traffic. The bridge's construction in 1971 replaced an insufficient vehicular ferry service, greatly improving connectivity and supporting the region's economic and social activities.
The engineering complexities, including the use of 23,000 cubic yards of concrete and 600 tonnes of high tensile steel, highlight the advanced techniques used to ensure its durability and functionality.
CaSE designed the access platform including the methodology for installing and removing using strand jacks supported from the existing bridge structure.
The platform needed to support and handle large steel plates that would be installed to strengthening the halving joints.
