New bridge inspection tech could reduce road closures
A pioneering National Highways research project led by AtkinsRéalis and Jacobs has revealed how cutting-edge inspection techniques could transform maintenance of the UK’s strategic road network—minimising disruption, reducing cost, and enhancing safety.
The Structures’ Moonshot Project, a flagship National Highways initiative aimed at revolutionising the way critical highway structures are inspected, has reached a major milestone. Led by AtkinsRéalis and Jacobs, the programme has identified and tested a suite of advanced non-destructive testing (NDT) methods that could reduce the need for road closures, while delivering more accurate data on bridge conditions.
The research focused on structures with hidden, hard-to-inspect components—particularly post-tensioned bridges, which are vital to the UK's motorway and A-road networks. Many are over 50 years old and increasingly in need of detailed assessment to ensure continued safe use.
NDT methods use advanced imaging and sensing tools to identify defects below concrete surfaces without the need for physical intrusion. Over 60 tests were carried out on mock-ups and decommissioned assets, including 20 NDT technologies from across the globe. One of the most promising innovations trialled was muon tomography, used to create 3D models of internal bridge elements.
The initiative also developed integrated digital twins—combining multiple inspection methods into a single data model to improve decision-making. The findings are being shared with industry leaders at a two-day conference in Birmingham (16–17 June).
Colin George, deputy head of structures at National Highways, said: “The technologies we’re looking at have the potential to achieve the safety and efficiency we need—cutting back on closures and delivering better value for money. Technology is transforming transport, and we must keep innovating.”
Chris Mundell, technical director at AtkinsRéalis, added: “This project is about empowering engineers with tools equivalent to medical x-rays. It’s shown us there’s no silver bullet, but NDT integration can revolutionise bridge management.”
The programme enters its third phase later this year, deploying technologies across live assets in the National Highways network. With over 20,000 structures under its management, the implications for cost, safety and sustainability are significant.
Richard Sanderson of Jacobs noted: “Emerging NDT techniques offer less invasive ways to ensure structural integrity and reduce carbon-heavy interventions. These trials will ultimately equip engineers with a better toolkit for managing our critical infrastructure.”
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