Project Overview

The York Central scheme includes a £100m infrastructure package delivered by John Sisk & Son through the YORCivil Framework. The works feature a new road bridge and footbridge spanning the East Coast Main Line, forming a key gateway into the York Central development.

Amrose was appointed to provide temporary works design support to Barrett Group, the Formwork, Reinforcement and Concrete (FRC) subcontractor, during construction of the reinforced concrete abutments for both bridges.

 

The Challenge

The project presented several technical and logistical challenges:

  • Construction of large reinforced concrete abutments adjacent to an operational mainline railway
  • Safe erection and temporary stability of substantial reinforcement cages
  • Formwork solutions capable of supporting high, single-lift concrete pours
  • Complex access requirements around irregular abutment geometry
  • Full compliance with Network Rail assurance procedures

These factors required carefully coordinated temporary works designs aligned with both permanent works requirements and site constraints.

Reinforcement Stability Solutions

Amrose developed a stability design and safe installation sequence for the large reinforcement cages forming the bridge abutments.

To ensure cages could be safely erected and remain stable in a free-standing condition, the design incorporated additional reinforcement bars secured using Ischebeck INFORM Reco Clamps. This increased stiffness and overall structural stability during construction, reducing risk while allowing efficient site operations.

Formwork Coordination and Single-Lift Construction

Working closely with EFCO, Amrose developed a formwork solution using the EFCO plate girder system, with panels reaching up to 6.9 metres in height. This enabled the ECML abutments and retaining walls to be cast in a single lift.

The design fully coordinated primary formwork and ancillary elements including timber box-outs, anchors and kentledge. Any changes were clearly communicated so that  equipment availability aligned with the construction programme. This proactive coordination helped avoid delays, rework and redesign costs.

 

Access Design and 3D Modelling

Due to the complex shape of the structures, access systems required detailed planning. Amrose modelled the scaffolding arrangements in 3D using Revit, allowing clashes to be identified and resolved before site installation. This improved both safety and installation efficiency on site.

Rail Assurance and Independent Checking

Given the proximity of the works to the operational ECML, all temporary works designs required Network Rail assurance. Amrose supported the project through the CRE(D) approval process, completing required documentation and providing technical guidance throughout.

Amrose also coordinated the independent Category 3 checks for the temporary works design packages, relieving the client of the responsibility for sourcing and managing a separate checker.

The Outcome

Amrose’s integrated temporary works solutions had a significant positive impact on the outcome of the project. Here are a few of the highlights:

  • Safe erection and stability of complex reinforcement cages
  • Efficient single-lift construction of high abutments and retaining walls
  • Fully coordinated formwork and ancillary systems
  • Clash-free access installations through 3D modelling
  • Streamlined Network Rail assurance and independent checking

Our contribution supported safe, efficient delivery of critical infrastructure adjacent to one of the UK’s busiest railway routes.

Need support with temporary works for complex infrastructure or rail-adjacent projects? Get in touch to discuss how early design coordination can improve safety, programme certainty and cost control. Ask Amrose: 0113 391 9840