Project background
The Tame Valley Viaduct, a vital 620m long and 25m wide structure, supports 90,000 vehicles daily across seven lanes on the A38(M) Aston Expressway between Junction 6 of the M6 and Birmingham City Centre. Built in the 1970s, it has deteriorated and requires strengthening due to increased traffic and limited loading capacity. Birmingham City Council has appointed VolkerFitzpatrick on a £56m, 4-year strengthening scheme to enhance the viaduct's superstructure with steel plates, new maintenance access hatches, reinforced structural cross boxes, internal and external blasting and painting, and concrete repairs on piers and the deck soffit.
The A38(M) in Aston, Birmingham, involves work inside four rows of longitudinal steel box girders situated 12 metres above ground, directly beneath live traffic. Each row of boxes is 620m long, 3m wide and 2m high. The project encompasses various specialisms, including steelwork and welding, scaffolding and working at height, concrete surveys and repairs, blasting and painting, and working in confined spaces. This work is conducted amidst active businesses, two live railway lines, and the River Tame.
Impact
My primary role involves the commercial management of the project, from initial procurement to daily monitoring and project handover. Additionally, the project includes a £60m social value commitment, where I have collaborated with charities, educational institutions, and various stakeholders to help achieve this goal.
Challenges
The box girders, measuring 3m wide and 2m high, are considered confined spaces, making workforce safety paramount. To address this, a specialist mines rescue team is on standby, with mock rescues conducted to ensure confidence in our safety procedures. New Technology: We've digitalized quality management using Dalux, which is similar to BIM. We created a 3D model of the structure and will complete over 4,000 inspection check sheets, each containing specific work details to that construction activity, which is stored remotely and is accessible at the touch of a button for future stakeholders. This approach has helped reduce our carbon footprint by avoiding the use of paper-based systems and has modernized our data for future use.
Reflecting on NTU
How did your studies at NTU enable you to input into this project?
Quantification & Costing: This helped me understand how projects are priced and managed, building awareness of how individual components contribute to a project's overall costs. Construction Technology & Health & Safety Law: These subjects provided insight into construction processes and CDM requirements, giving me a comprehensive understanding of project management alongside my commercial role on my projects.
What words would you share to inspire current and future students at NTU?
My overall advice is: "You can be taught anything except enthusiasm." Your results will reflect your effort - show interest, ask questions, volunteer for opportunities, and always strive to present yourself positively. Upon graduation, you'll embark on a 40-year career where your progress, earnings, project types, and life experiences will all depend on your effort and drive.
Why did you choose NTU and your course?
I chose NTU because it had a personal connection to myself with my father undertaking the same course when he was younger. Its a renowned university for delivering high quality, modern and industry leading teachings.
What have you done since leaving NTU?
Since leaving NTU, I have advanced in my career, recently being promoted to Senior QS after just 7 years in the industry. I have worked on various projects, including highways, structures, defence, and building. Additionally, I have contributed to impactful social value initiatives, collaborated with diverse individuals across the UK, and achieved personal goals outside of work. This success stems from adhering to the mantra: "You can be taught anything except enthusiasm."