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The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) Annual report reveals that earthworks failures in Britain's railways due to climate change are increasing. Network Rail is taking steps to address these failures by implementing measures such as drainage installation and embankment stabilization. They are also using remote condition monitoring and data analysis to identify potential failures in advance. Collaboration between different regions and disciplines within Network Rail is crucial in mitigating the effects of climate change on railway infrastructure. The text also discusses the collection of data on rainfall and soil moisture deficit in a specific region, which suggests that recent winters have been particularly severe, indicating the active impact of climate change. Additionally, Network Rail conducted repairs after a landslip in Telford in March. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the differences in maintenance strategies between old and new railways, specifically focusing on conventional rail and high-speed rail. It highlights the challenges of maintaining both types of railways, including the tolerance for risk and delays from passengers. The article also explores the different approaches to maintenance financing and decision-making between HS1 and Network Rail. Additionally, it discusses the importance of climate resilience in railway infrastructure and how HS2 is being designed with climate impact in mind. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the engineering solutions that airports are implementing to mitigate the risks associated with climate change. As extreme weather events become more intense, airports face operational challenges as they were not designed to withstand such conditions. The World Economic Forum has published a paper outlining five steps to climate resilience in airports, including building resilience into new designs, retrofitting resilience into existing assets, and integrating climate resilience into long-term planning. Examples of airports implementing resilience measures include raising ground levels and re-allocating passenger facilities to mitigate flooding, integrating stormwater management into landscaping design, and using green infrastructure to improve drainage and reduce temperatures. Airports are also utilizing data and technology to make informed decisions and predict future climate conditions. Retrofitting or replacing assets to account for projected climate change is a challenge, but airports are using available data to assess risk impact and determine the best solutions. Planning for future climate conditions is becoming a key component of climate risk assessment, and designing beyond predicted events is becoming more mainstream. Retrofitting or replacing assets presents an opportunity for airports to embrace the future and design facilities that are resilient to climate change. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the reopening of a disused railway line in the west of Ireland as part of Irish Rail's strategy to shift freight transportation from road to rail. The project is being funded by the Shannon Foynes Port Company (SFPC) and is crucial for supporting the expansion of the port. The line, which was previously used for freight transportation, will be refurbished and upgraded to accommodate modern rail operations. The project involves the repair and refurbishment of bridges, the installation of CCTV monitoring systems and automated level crossings, and the delivery of materials for track construction. The line is expected to open in early 2026 and may potentially accommodate passenger services in the future. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the benefits and challenges of electrifying railways in the UK. It highlights that electrified railways are cheaper to run, have greater capacity, and are more reliable and environmentally friendly. However, the electrification rate in the UK is currently low due to high upfront costs, lack of cost certainty, and shifting governmental budgets. The article suggests that a long-term approach with a steady, rolling program of electrification is needed to achieve the country's goals. It also mentions technical improvements in electrification that are reducing costs and increasing efficiency. [Extracted from the article]

Plans to build a garden village on the edge of Carlisle will receive a significant boost with the completion of the city's new southern link road next year. The road will improve connectivity and provide crossings for railways and rivers. It will also include bridges for cyclists and pedestrians, facilitating connections to the active travel infrastructure in the village. The project has faced challenges, including the termination of the construction contract due to cost issues, but a new contractor has been appointed and progress is being made. Water management features have been incorporated into the scheme to mitigate flooding risks, and the project is expected to be completed in late autumn next year. [Extracted from the article]

The Renfrew Bridge, currently under construction in Scotland, is one of the most challenging designs for its engineers. The bridge features cable stays and pivots on slew bearings, with unequal cantilever lengths on either side of the pivot. The design was modified to meet budget constraints, resulting in a simplified design and reduced cost. The bridge will provide a direct link for car users, cyclists, and pedestrians, improving connectivity in the area. The construction process has involved coordination with multiple stakeholders and careful consideration of environmental impacts. The bridge is expected to be completed and handed over to the council in the autumn. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the construction of London's new justice quarter, known as the Salisbury Square development. The project involves demolishing old buildings and excavating a large basement, which presented challenges due to pre-existing underground structures. The project team, including Mace, Avison Young, and Keltbray, worked together to develop engineering solutions and temporary works to enable the excavation. The construction of the court building, police headquarters, and commercial building is now underway, with completion expected in autumn 2026. [Extracted from the article]

A new footbridge is being constructed across the River Wear in Sunderland to improve connectivity and revitalize the city center. The 250m long, 10m wide bridge will provide a high-level pedestrian and cycle crossing, addressing the poor connectivity in the area. The design of the bridge follows the orientation of the Keel Line, a public artwork referencing the city's shipbuilding history. The construction process involves temporary works and careful planning to overcome location challenges and ensure the stability of the structure. The bridge is expected to be completed and open to the public in August 2025. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the use of 3D printing technology in bridge construction and the challenges that hinder its widespread adoption. It highlights several examples of 3D printed bridges, including a cycling bridge in the Netherlands and a footbridge in Italy. The benefits of 3D printing in bridge construction are identified, such as the ability to produce structures with complex geometries and the potential for material optimization and waste reduction. However, the article also acknowledges the current limitations of 3D printing technology, including uncertainty about structural performance and the absence of design guidelines. The high cost and the need for innovative clients are also mentioned as barriers to adoption. The future use of 3D printing in bridge construction is seen as complementary to existing methods, with potential applications in manufacturing certain bridge components and strengthening existing bridges. The article suggests that collaboration between clients, designers, and potential suppliers is needed to address the barriers and promote the adoption of 3D printing technology in bridge construction. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the Woodsmith project on Teesside, which involves the construction of a 36.7km tunnel to transport polyhalite, a mineral used in fertilizers. The project broke the world record for the longest single tunnel boring machine (TBM) drive. The tunnel will also be used to supply power, water, and access to the mine. The project faced challenges such as navigating fault zones and maintaining consistency in the grout used for the tunnel lining. The construction of four shafts, including a deep production shaft and service shafts, is also underway. [Extracted from the article]

Northumbrian Water is undertaking a £155 million pipeline resilience upgrade in the Tees Valley, which includes the construction of a tunnel under the River Tees. The project aims to improve water supply resilience and connect reservoirs and water treatment works in Teesdale and County Durham. The tunneling process involved excavating two shafts, lining them with concrete, and installing precast concrete segments to create a tunnel. A tunnel boring machine was then used to bore the tunnel wider than the pipe, allowing for the installation of carrier pipes. Despite technical challenges, the project is expected to be completed by March 2025. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the challenges faced by the A63 Castle Street Improvement Scheme in Hull, UK. The project aims to introduce a grade separated junction and improve a 1.5km stretch of the A63 road. The complex ground conditions, including estuarine deposits and a high groundwater table, required extensive ground improvement works. These works involved techniques such as diaphragm wall construction, dry deep mixing ground improvement, and the installation of tension piles and a jet grouting layer. The project team conducted site trials to better understand the ground conditions and ensure safe excavation. The project is expected to be completed in Spring 2025. [Extracted from the article]

The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) has issued a warning to decision makers about the importance of learning from the challenges faced during the High Speed 2 (HS2) project in order to avoid future infrastructure failures. The ICE's report highlights issues such as a lack of clarity in decision-making, a lack of a coherent organizational model, and a rapid turnover of staff and ministers. The report also emphasizes the need for clear outcomes and wider benefits to be prioritized over costs in major infrastructure projects. The proposed Midlands-North West Rail Link (MNWRL) as a replacement for the cancelled HS2 North faces challenges in its implementation, including reducing train speeds and potential maintenance costs associated with conventional track. [Extracted from the article]

The article features several letters to the editor discussing various infrastructure projects and transportation issues. One letter argues for private financing of the Stonehenge Tunnel and the Lower Thames Crossing, while another suggests implementing dynamic pricing for the M6 Toll motorway. Another letter raises concerns about long-term planning for the electricity supply and distribution industry. There is also a letter proposing alternative approaches to the HS2 project, including using double deck trains and reconfiguring the route. Overall, the letters provide diverse perspectives on infrastructure and transportation topics. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the impact of a new Labour Government on infrastructure in the UK. The CEO of The Civil Engineering Contractors Association (Ceca) describes the government's agenda as a "mixed bag" for infrastructure, with potential and challenges. The energy and water sectors are identified as critical growth markets, with significant investment opportunities. The article also mentions the need for policy stability, resolving investment uncertainty, and addressing funding issues. Overall, the CEO remains optimistic about the government's ability to deliver growth and opportunities for infrastructure. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses several infrastructure projects in the UK. The Shetland Islands have been connected to the national electricity grid for the first time through the completion of the Shetland HVDC Link. This project is accompanied by the completion of the Viking Wind Farm on Shetland. Network Rail is making progress on a merger with LCR to enhance property development opportunities. HS2 celebrates the completion of the Colne Valley Viaduct, the longest railway bridge in Britain. The Gull Wing Bridge in Lowestoft has opened, and the UK government has struck funding deals for 131 renewable energy projects. The A889 trunk road in Scotland will be resurfaced using Smooth Ride technology, and Skanska has completed enabling works at Euston station for the future HS2 London terminus. [Extracted from the article]

The article provides the results of the 2024 Trustee and Council elections for the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE). Three new Trustees have been elected, including Jonathan Spruce, Ohis Ilalokhoin, and Paula McMahon. Additionally, 11 Council members have been elected to direct the lifelong learning and engineering knowledge of the institution. The article also discusses the ICE's promotion of the globally applicable standard for carbon management in buildings and infrastructure, PAS 2080. It highlights the ICE's efforts to showcase the benefits of PAS 2080 through events and discussions with members. Finally, the article mentions the ICE's focus on continuing professional development (CPD) and the consultation conducted to strengthen CPD and ensure its relevance to professionally qualified members. The findings of the consultation are available on the ICE website, and the ICE Council will work with the professionalism panel to determine how frequently members should demonstrate their competence in mandatory topics. [Extracted from the article]

The article reports that UK infrastructure projects, including the Stonehenge Tunnel, will not move forward due to a £22 billion hole in the government's audit of public finances. Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced the cancellation of various projects, such as the A27 Arundel Bypass and the restoration of disused railways, in an effort to save money. Civil engineering contractors expressed disappointment with the infrastructure cuts. The article also discusses the challenges faced by Balfour Beatty in renewing the London Street overbridge at Paddington station, including the construction of a "mega tent" to work around site constraints. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the construction of the Mont Cenis Base Tunnel, which is part of the Lyon-Turin railway project. The tunnel, which will be the world's longest railway tunnel, aims to increase rail freight capacity between France and Italy and reduce carbon emissions by taking lorries off the roads. The project has received funding from the European Union, the Italian Government, and the French Government. The tunnel will allow for increased capacity, higher train speeds, and reduced energy consumption. The construction is divided into four lots, with excavation work already underway. The project faces challenges such as ground conditions and safety, but measures have been implemented to ensure safety and timely completion. The project is expected to be completed in 2032. [Extracted from the article]

Ground freezing, a ground stabilization technique, is being successfully used in the construction of the High Speed 2 and Silvertown tunnels in the UK. Ground freezing involves circulating a brine freezing solution through pipes drilled into the ground, creating a frozen barrier around the excavation area. This method offers advantages such as reducing the need for water extraction and minimizing environmental impact. While ground freezing is not widely used in the UK, its success in these projects may lead to wider adoption in the future. [Extracted from the article]

The Auckland Central Interceptor project in New Zealand is the largest wastewater infrastructure project in the country's history. Its aim is to reduce combined sewer overflows and water pollution caused by heavy rain and wastewater volumes. The project involves the construction of a 14.7km tunnel, two link sewers, and a new pumping station. The tunnel will have the capacity to store 226,000m3 of wastewater and will reduce overflow volume in the city's harbors by up to 80%. The project is expected to be completed in 2026 and will help meet the target of no more than two overflows per point on the network by 2030. [Extracted from the article]

Princess Anne has been named as a patron of the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), furthering her long association with the organization. The ICE, which was granted its Royal Charter in 1828, hopes that Princess Anne's role will help raise its profile and that of civil engineering. Princess Anne has been an advocate for women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, and her appointment as patron came just ahead of International Women in Engineering Day. The ICE also highlighted efforts to promote LGBTQ+ inclusivity and announced the winners of the 2024 Emerging Engineers Award. [Extracted from the article]

Investment uncertainty is hindering the growth of rail freight in the UK, according to Maggie Simpson, the director general of the Rail Freight Group. She emphasizes the environmental and economic benefits of increasing rail freight, such as lower carbon emissions and cost savings for long-distance transportation. The Department for Transport has set a target of 75% growth in rail freight by 2050, and Simpson is encouraged by the government's acknowledgement of rail freight's importance. However, network capacity and infrastructure investment remain challenges, with the cancellation of the High Speed 2 project impacting freight train capacity on the West Coast Main Line. Simpson also highlights the need for electrified sections of the freight network to be connected properly to major sites. She cautiously welcomes the prospect of rail reform under the integrated delivery body Great British Railways, but expresses concerns about potential prioritization of passenger trains over freight. [Extracted from the article]

The article titled "Your View: LETTERS TO THE EDITOR AND COMMENTS ONLINE" features several letters from readers discussing various topics. One letter discusses the plans for the Fenlands Reservoir, expressing concern over the lengthy approval process and the limited use of the stored water. Another letter criticizes the use of smart motorways, arguing that the removal of hard shoulders poses safety risks. A third letter questions the cost-effectiveness of the A63 improvement project. Lastly, a letter addresses the design flaws of the Baltimore bridge and suggests improvements for future bridge designs. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the Grenfell disaster and the long-awaited final report on the incident. It highlights the government's deregulation of fire safety standards in buildings in the 1980s, which shifted the role of fire inspectors to "inform and educate" rather than enforce. The article also mentions a previous high-rise building fire in 2017 that resulted in deaths but did not lead to retrofitting sprinkler systems. The new Labour Government has called for a two-stage inquiry into the Grenfell fire, and urgent action is needed to improve fire safety standards. The article criticizes the slow progress in upgrading high-rise buildings and compares the response to the Grenfell disaster to a previous bridge collapse in Australia, which was investigated and reported on much more quickly. The article concludes by suggesting the use of external sprinkler systems and questioning why they have not been considered. [Extracted from the article]

The article features letters to the editor and online comments from readers. One letter discusses the need for a published plan showing how HS2 fits into the wider transport network to restore confidence in the project. Another letter suggests making the Birmingham Toll Road free of charge to divert HGVs from the M6 and save maintenance costs. A comment highlights the lack of promotion of engineering as a career in schools and suggests that members and graduates should visit schools to share their experiences. Lastly, an article discusses the importance of assessing the cost of carrying risks in project estimates and the need for decision makers to understand the consequences of their decisions. [Extracted from the article]

The NHS's new hospital program is aiming to modernize hospital building approaches and improve diversity in the workforce. With a significant backlog in maintenance and renewal works estimated at £12bn, the program seeks to establish greater standardization and less bespoke approaches to hospital construction. The NHS is also seeking a different profile of people or companies in the supply chain to bring these new facilities into being. The program is moving towards a standard hospital 2.0 model with single rooms and repeatable construction methods, and is open to suppliers from different sectors to improve diversity and attract relevant talent. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the return of optimism to the rail sector, highlighting recent positive developments such as the potential restart of the Euston connection for HS2 and plans to replace parts of HS2 phase 2 with a new railway scheme. The article also emphasizes the importance of rail in addressing climate change and reports on the revival of a disused railway line in Ireland as part of Ireland's strategy to shift more freight from road to rail. Additionally, the article explores challenges and innovations in rail electrification, the impact of climate change on railways, and the need for a holistic approach to transport policy. The article concludes by mentioning the British Construction Industry Awards, which celebrate excellence in the built environment sector. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses ethical dilemmas in infrastructure and the role of civil engineers in understanding and responding to them. The dilemmas primarily revolve around sustainability and the conflict between the need for new infrastructure and the impacts of climate change. The article also highlights the importance of competence in engineering projects and the need for better decision-making processes. It emphasizes the need for engineers to develop moral and ethical skills, including understanding justice and equity at local and international levels. The article concludes by advocating for ethical debates and respectful engagement with differing perspectives. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses various initiatives and programs offered by the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE). The CityZen Award and CityZen Pollution Control Challenge are open to students aged 16-18 and 14-16, respectively, providing them with skills and insights into civil engineering and STEM topics. The ICE is also seeking schools, teachers, and mentors to participate in these challenges. Additionally, the article mentions the UK government's plans for infrastructure development and highlights the risks and opportunities of using AI in engineering. The ICE headquarters has undergone refurbishment to improve its carbon footprint and promote sustainability. [Extracted from the article]

The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) is inviting 16 to 18-year-olds to participate in the CityZen Award, which provides skills and insight into civil engineering and STEM topics. Participants complete a digital game and create a video pitch for a civil engineering improvement in their local environment. Additionally, the ICE is introducing the CityZen Pollution Control Challenge for 14 to 16-year-olds. The article also discusses the AI revolution in the engineering industry, highlighting the benefits and challenges of using AI. Furthermore, it mentions the refurbishment of ICE HQ to enhance its carbon footprint and sustainability efforts. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the importance of integrating environmental sustainability into infrastructure projects. It highlights that infrastructure is responsible for a significant portion of greenhouse gas emissions in the UK, and emphasizes the need for action to improve the environmental credentials of the construction sector. The article introduces PAS 2080 compliance as a global standard for managing infrastructure carbon and reducing whole life carbon. It emphasizes the importance of leadership buy-in, understanding data to set targets, and end-to-end collaboration with the supply chain in achieving PAS 2080 compliance. The article also mentions that National Highways will require PAS 2080 compliance from collaborating organizations, making roads a key focus area for the industry. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in civil engineering and the challenges that AI projects face. It highlights issues such as project scoping, skills gap, funding challenges, validation and verification, understanding AI's potential, data management, legal and ethical considerations, and disruption of established models. The article emphasizes the need for awareness about AI's capabilities and limitations and suggests steps that can be taken to harness data effectively. Overall, the article provides insights into the knowledge revolution in civil engineering and the preparations required to fully utilize AI in the field. [Extracted from the article]

Network Rail's Access For All program, which aims to provide step-free access to railway platforms, has been described as "significantly" underperforming in the last five years. The program faced challenges during Control Period 6 (CP6) and now faces difficulties transitioning to CP7. Network Rail is conducting a review of the program to improve delivery in the future. Disability campaigners have criticized the lack of progress in rail accessibility and called for greater focus on level boarding. There is a need for clear and practical information on improvements made and more travel options for disabled people. [Extracted from the article]

A review of the UK government's approach to transport has recommended the development of an integrated transport strategy for England, which would be supported by a pipeline of priority projects. The review also highlights the need to accelerate infrastructure delivery and suggests implementing fast-track routes for developing new railway projects. Transport devolution is seen as key to driving growth, but it is dependent on subnational bodies gaining more defined roles, autonomy, and funding certainty. The review emphasizes the benefits of a national transport strategy for England and calls for more multi-year funding settlements for Mayoral Combined Authorities. Additionally, advancing public-private partnerships in the transport sector is seen as crucial for increasing investment and growth, but it requires greater stability in government policy and a change in mindset from HM Treasury. The ICE (Institution of Civil Engineers) will continue to engage with the government as it refines its plans and prepares for a multi-year spending review. [Extracted from the article]

This article from New Civil Engineer discusses the current state of roads infrastructure in the UK and explores ways to improve it. While roads are heavily used for economic and social purposes, they are often seen as problematic due to issues like noise, pollution, and climate change. Funding for road maintenance and new projects is limited, but the article argues that roads can contribute to growth and new housebuilding if investment is targeted properly. The article also highlights the need to address the poor condition of existing roads and the environmental implications of neglecting maintenance. Additionally, it discusses the potential for nature-based solutions and the industry's focus on sustainability and climate protection. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of placemaking and social impact in infrastructure development to make roads more appreciated by the public. [Extracted from the article]

This document provides a summary of recent elections and appointments within the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE). Three new Trustees have been elected, along with 11 Council members, to lead the strategic direction of the ICE. Additionally, the ICE is promoting the globally applicable standard for carbon management in buildings and infrastructure, known as PAS 2080: 2023. The document also highlights the innovative contributions of civil engineers, such as the invention of everyday objects like the football goal net and the dishwasher. Lastly, the ICE celebrates its long-standing members, who cite companionship and a lifelong passion for civil engineering as reasons for maintaining their membership. [Extracted from the article]

The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) has announced the election results for its Trustees and Council members. Three new Trustees have been elected, including Jonathan Spruce, Ohis Ilalokhoin, and Paula McMahon. Additionally, 11 Council members have been elected to direct the lifelong learning and engineering knowledge of the institution. The ICE is also promoting the globally applicable standard for carbon management in buildings and infrastructure, PAS 2080, through a series of events. The organization is showcasing the benefits of PAS 2080 and providing members with the opportunity to discuss challenges, explore solutions, and share best practices. ICE members with over 50 years of membership recently gathered at events in Newcastle and Leeds to celebrate the milestone, citing companionship and a lifelong love for civil engineering as reasons for maintaining their membership. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the results of the 2024 Trustee and Council elections for the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE). Three new Trustees have been elected, along with 11 Council members, to lead the strategic direction of the ICE and direct the lifelong learning and engineering knowledge of the institution. The article also highlights the ICE's promotion of the globally applicable standard for carbon management in buildings and infrastructure, PAS 2080: 2023. Additionally, the article mentions the inventions of civil engineers beyond infrastructure, such as the football goal net and the dishwasher. Lastly, the article mentions events celebrating ICE members with over 50 years of membership, who cited companionship and a lifelong love for civil engineering as reasons for maintaining their membership. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the recent elections held by the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), where new Trustees and Council members were elected to lead the organization. The ICE also promoted the globally applicable standard for carbon management in buildings and infrastructure, known as PAS 2080. The article also highlights the innovative contributions of civil engineers beyond infrastructure, such as the invention of the football goal net and the dishwasher. Additionally, the article mentions events held to celebrate ICE members with over 50 years of membership, who cited companionship and a lifelong love for civil engineering as reasons for their continued involvement. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the concept of "smart" products and systems in the context of enhancing resilience in the face of climate change. It emphasizes the importance of connecting nature-based solutions, such as green infrastructure and rainwater harvesting, to smart technologies and networks. By utilizing real-time weather data and intelligent algorithms, these systems can optimize their performance, avoid unnecessary water movement, and effectively manage flood risk. The article also highlights the need for scale and connectivity in order to fully optimize these solutions and address the challenges of climate change and urban development. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the importance of connectivity in the construction industry and its impact on productivity. A survey conducted in 2023 revealed that many construction companies faced challenges in implementing technologies such as wireless connectivity, 3D printing, robotics, and artificial intelligence. The author, the CEO of UK Connect, emphasizes the need for better connectivity in construction and highlights the company's work with Kier Group and Cala Group to improve connectivity at their construction sites. The article also mentions the construction industry's role in the UK's economy and the need to address the productivity challenge in the sector. [Extracted from the article]

Andy Cross, a bridge expert at Network Rail, spoke at the NCE Bridges conference and urged the industry to challenge current standards for designing, constructing, and maintaining bridges. He highlighted the need for better planning for climate and sustainability. Cross emphasized the importance of clarity in bridge construction plans and expressed concern that many bridge projects on the rail network still use outdated designs. He also called for more intelligent, efficient, and sustainable bridge stock that achieves the same purpose without being bulky or obstructive. Cross advocated for tying future bridge resilience to weather data to improve maintenance and management. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the need for wind tunnel testing to investigate the impact of a new central reservation barrier on the stability of the Prince of Wales Bridge. The bridge, which connects England and Wales, has a history of sensitivity to wind-induced vibrations. The existing barrier does not meet current containment standards, so a suitable replacement is being sought. Wind tunnel testing has shown that the proposed barrier will not adversely affect the bridge's behavior in windy conditions. The detailed design of the replacement scheme is underway, with an estimated cost of £5 million. [Extracted from the article]

According to an article in New Civil Engineer, the Railway Industry Association (RIA) has stated that almost all railway passenger services and 95% of freight services in the UK could be decarbonized through increased electrification of the rail network. The RIA recommends focusing on electrifying major station approaches and strategic routes. The RIA also suggests using battery-powered trains for the remaining network. In another news, the Transport Secretary is awaiting more information before deciding whether to approve the development consent order for the Lower Thames Crossing project. The article also mentions the completion of heavy civil works for the Thames Tideway Tunnel project and the scaling back of Saudi Arabia's ambitious plan to build a desert city called The Line. Additionally, the article discusses the next steps for the first stage of Northern Powerhouse Rail and the preparations for laying the pitch at Everton FC's new stadium. Finally, it mentions that consultant Cowi has been awarded a contract to provide technical advice for the construction of the world's first ship tunnel in Norway. [Extracted from the article]

The University of Bristol has signed an agreement with the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) to support the professional development of civil engineering students and staff. This partnership is part of the ICE Academic Partnerships scheme, which offers tailored professional development opportunities for students at universities with accredited civil engineering courses. The agreement aims to enhance students' employability and prepare them for careers as qualified civil engineers. It also provides resources for academic staff, including lifelong learning resources and access to research funds and industry expertise. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the recommendations made by the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) for improving infrastructure in the UK. These recommendations include increasing infrastructure spending, prioritizing social and environmental benefits, delivering projects faster and more sustainably, and engaging the public to reduce carbon emissions. The article also highlights the top 50 women in engineering, with 11 civil engineers being recognized for their contributions to various sectors such as flood management, cyber security, and renewable energy. The Women's Engineering Society (WES) organizes this recognition to inspire future generations to pursue engineering careers and promote gender diversity in the industry. [Extracted from the article]