Leven River rail bridge replacement

13/07/2021

VEC worked with client TasRail to replace the Leven River Rail Bridge which had been deteriorating because of exposure to a windy and salty environment.

One of the four north west bridge replacements, the Leven River rail bridge was originally built in 1939. VEC’s analysis recommended it be completely replaced on a new southern alignment.  

A new 160m long bridge was designed and constructed, using a false work bridge to build the new structure over water. This falsework had to accommodate a 70t pile driving rig, a 30t pile driving excavator and a 160t crane. Redundant bridge beams from the Blythe River Rail Bridge Replacement were used to act as support for taking down the old bridge and underwater explosives were needed to remove piers in a deep section of the river.  

The VEC Planning System was used for project planning and delivery to make sure the work was done safely and successfully. 

The new rail bridge provides improved alignment, increased load capacity and lowest lifecycle costs.