THE EAST KILBRIDE EXPRESSWAY

The paper covers the history of a major highway project from its conception to its present stage of construction. The advantages to be gained from the routeing of a highway through areas of physical deprivation and the blending of the route into areas of ecological importance are discussed. Problems associated with accommodation works are touched on as is the attraction of industry by the provision of a high standard access to the national road network. The use of a multi disciplinary team and corporate action by local authority departments is described as are the site investigation procedures and design standards for phase II of the expressway. The structures associated with this phase are detailed with a note being made on the more important structures associated with the two remaining phases. Constructional problems associated with earthworks detailing, segmental piling and the use of 'ready mix' concrete are discussed as is the use of plastic formwork liners. The paper concludes that far from being detrimental to the environment, highway construction can, particularly in areas of deprivation, improve the environment and act as a catalyst for economic growth.