Delivering Excellence on the Carlisle Southern Link Road (CSLR)

Client: Cumbria County Council
Main Contractor: Galliford Try
Location: Carlisle, Cumbria

Overview

We played a pivotal role in the successful delivery of key civil engineering packages on the Carlisle Southern Link Road (CSLR) – a major infrastructure project connecting junction 42 of the M6 to the A595 west of Carlisle.

Initially brought on board to deliver a focused package of works, Morrison Civil Engineering Ltd’s high standards of workmanship, ability to deliver under pressure, and collaborative attitude led to a significant expansion in scope.

From an initial enabling works package to becoming a trusted multi-package delivery partner, our involvement on CSLR showcases our capability to deliver complex infrastructure solutions on time, to specification, and with a collaborative spirit.

Our proactive approach, high-quality workmanship, and environmental stewardship were central to our continued success on the CSLR project – a vital scheme for the region’s connectivity and growth.

Construction of temporary bridge abutments

Phase 1: Temporary Bridge Access Works

We were first invited to construct temporary bridge abutments for a bridge spanning the River Caldew – critical for accessing the landlock West Pier of the Caldew Crossing. Despite a tight programme, we delivered the works to an exceptional standard, allowing the bridge landing to proceed without delay.

Impressed by our performance, Galliford Try instructed further enabling works, including:

Construction of approach ramps to the temporary bridge
Bridge deck protection works
Creation of the West Pier compound, involving:
- Earthworks and culverting of an existing stream
- Inlet and outlet headwall installation
- Realignment of a cycleway / footpath
- Erection of perimeter fencing

Phase 2: Structural Works for Caldew Crossing

Following our strong early contribution, we were awarded a major package of structural works to support the construction of the 180m triple-span Caldew Crossing, which spans both the River Caldew and the Cumbria Coast Railway Line.

Our scope included:

Installation of cofferdams
Excavation and placement of over 1,200m3 of concrete for the mass gravity bridge foundations

This stage presented significant water management challenges which we responded to with expertise and agility.

Water Management and Environmental Protection

Recognising the environmental sensitivities of the site, we mobilised a dedicated water management team and installed:

Six SiltBuster systems for cleansing water from construction activities
Silt mitigation measures across various locations to prevent environmental harm

These efforts ensured compliance with environmental regulations and demonstrated our commitment to sustainable construction practices.

Phase 3: Civils Package

Building on our strong track record, we were invited to tender for the civils package for the road team – and successfully secured the contract.

Current activities include:

Kerbing and tactile paving installation
Ducting and drainage works, including gullies and connections
Pond and outfall construction
Demolition and site clearance
Footpath installation and public realm reinstatement
Bus station reinstatement
Reconnection of water supplies

This broad package of works highlights Galliford Try’s confidence in our ability to deliver across multiple disciplines.