Germany – Architectural, construction, engineering and inspection services – Samtgemeinde Meinersen - Ersatzneubau einer Gemeindestraßenbrücke über den Wasserlauf der Aller bei Ettenbüttel - Vergabe der Planungsleistungen

The Samtgemeinde Meinersen intends to replace the Allerbrücke in the municipality of Ettenbüttel. The existing bridge carries a municipal connecting road, which connects the villages of Ettenbüttel and Bokelberge/Langenklint, over the river Aller. The existing structure dates from 1926 and has an original load-bearing capacity of 16 t. The last main inspection according to DIN 1076 on 07.07.2025 resulted in a condition rating of 3.5 ("inadequate"). Due to the poor structural condition, lack of load reserves and non-compliance with current safety requirements, it is not economically viable to maintain the structure. Complete demolition and the planning and implementation of a replacement structure are necessary. Furthermore, the adaptation of the municipal connecting road in the adjoining area will be required, with traffic planning playing a rather subordinate role. The bridge to be planned should meet all the requirements of a modern, load-bearing and durable structure. It is intended that the new bridge will be suitable for heavy goods transport. The Aller is a regionally significant watercourse with requirements for flood protection and water ecology. The structure is located in a sensitive natural area; nature conservation requirements (e.g. species protection, intervention regulation) must be taken into account. Traffic management during the construction phase must be ensured - if necessary, the planning of a temporary bridge or a diversion will be required. Existing and possibly relocatable supply lines must be integrated. Early coordination with the relevant authorities (e.g. water authority, nature conservation) is necessary. In advance, an engineering firm, which also carried out the last main inspection on 07.07.2025, conducted a variant analysis (incl. cost estimate). As a result, variant 3 "steel composite bridge as a frame structure" is to be implemented. Construction costs of approx. 3.7 million EUR are anticipated. Available grant funds should be utilised to the fullest extent possible for this project. The demolition of the 100-year-old bridge and the replacement of the bridge at the same location are to be carried out as soon as possible, but no later than 2028, depending on the allocation of grant funds.