Analysis, Evaluation and Proposals for Future Use of a Steel Bridge from 1847 under Heritage Protection Considerations

Bridge structures shape our built environment, and some might be considered as cultural heritage. Besides requirements for safety and durability, further constrains due to heritage protection increase the complexity of planning. By the example of a railway bridge from 1847, the challenges to its revitalization as a pedestrian bridge under heritage protection will be demonstrated. A debate on the features worthy of protection is held. Furthermore, a detailed damage assessment was conducted to capture the corrosion state of the puddle steel bridge. The capacity is evaluated after the German directive “Richtlinie zur Nachrechnung von Straßenbrücken im Bestand”. In addition, finite element models of the box girders are created. Two different concepts for a new lateral load bearing are developed and discussed. Restoration procedures are proposed to find a suitable compromise between the requirements of coating systems and the protective passive layer.