Developments in accelerated bridge construction in the United Kingdom – integrated design and construction

In recent years in the United Kingdom, there has been increasing use of Modern Methods of Construction for bridge and highway structures, including the development and use of offsite construction methodologies. These have facilitated faster construction programmes and reduced numbers of workers on site. However, such methodologies work best when developed from the start of the design process. This paper will consider the implications for bridge designers as such technologies develop, and how the use of digital design and configuration tools can assist in the implementation of improved construction methodologies. Increased digitalisation can also require a change in the mindset and workflows of designers, but has the potential to allow designers to spend more time on developing high quality built environments.