Decision details

To award a capital scheme ‘B6274, Sandwath House Bridge, Forcett – Maintenance’ using an NEC4 Engineering and Construction Contract.

The scheme is from the Capital Budget and is expected to cost £49,994.09 +VAT. The contractor will be Metcalfe Plant Hire Limited who has undertaken similar work previously for North Yorkshire Council (and formerly North Yorkshire County Council).

On 13 September 2023 the Area 1 Richmond Highways Office were contacted by the adjacent landowner who was concerned that the retaining wall at Sandwath House Bridge was bulging. Following site surveys it became apparent that the retaining wall was structurally unstable because of water seeping down the back of the retaining wall which over time has weakened the retaining wall and caused it to bulge. In January 2024 the bulge in the retaining wall collapsed exposing the fill material behind.

The retaining wall requires localised rebuilding works to be undertaken and a new drainage system installed on the B6274 adjacent to the retaining wall.

The alternative option is to ‘do nothing’, however, this option was dismissed to stop further deterioration which could lead to a more substantial collapse.