Sketch of the proposed bridge which forms a feature
structure of docklands redevelopmentCork Docklands Crossing
scheme involves the development of an opening span bridge crossing
the River Lee. The bridge is intended to be a feature structure,
forming a link between the north and south sections of the Cork
Docklands redevelopment project in Cork city.
Cable tool boring from a jack-up rig in the River
LeeMott MacDonald was appointed by Cork City Council to
undertake a feasibility study for the proposed new river crossing.
Initially, this involved the production of a geotechnical desk
study and a ground investigation options study report. The desk
study comprised a review of the published geology, the historical
development and existing geotechnical data available for the site
and surrounding area. The ground investigation options report
presented three potentials, which allowed for the comparison of
relative benefits and approximate costings.
In addition, Mott MacDonald undertook site supervision of the
geotechnical and contamination ground investigation. Results
revealed that the ground conditions in the River Lee Valley
comprise alluvium, post-glacial estuarine deposits overlying
glacial till and periglacial deposits. Carboniferous limestone was
found to form the bedrock in the south of the site and Devonian old
red sandstone and cork beds underlie the superficial deposits in
the north of the site.
Aerial photograph of the Cork docklands
areaThe scope of the investigation at the feasibility
stage was to research superficial geology level only. This was
altered to incorporate screening for any contamination present in
the ground, due to the varied industrial history of the area.
Afterwards foundation conditions for the bridge piers and the
approach ramps were examined.
The investigative techniques included both over water and on-land
cable percussive boring and in-situ and laboratory testing. The
obtained data was assessed and a geotechnical and geoenvironmental
interpretative report were produced to provide preliminary
recommendations on foundation design in addition to a preliminary
risk assessment on the hazards posed by contamination identified at
the site for the feasibility study.
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