Iconic Interchange Protected with Vehicle Restraint System

The Project: Protecting an Iconic London Interchange

The barrier works at the Brent Cross Interchange on the A406 North Circular have been completed with a bespoke solution from Asset VRS.

Opened in 1976, the interchange needed additional protection in front of substandard barriers on the inner ring, as well as extra protection for the flyover’s bridge piers, which form part of the articulated structure.

Barrier units being lifted into place overnight at Brent Cross

The Solution: Bespoke Zoneguard Sections

Following the initial barrier works on the inner ring at the Mid-Levels of the interchange, where bespoke Zoneguard now provides the primary protection in front of the original parapet, Asset VRS installed additional custom Zoneguard sections on the off-slips and at the Mid-Levels roundabout to protect the bridge piers.

Zoneguard is the lowest deflecting portable steel highway barrier in the world and is tested to BS EN 1317-2, which makes it well suited to tight urban structures where space is limited.

Night-time installation of the vehicle restraint system at Brent Cross Interchange

The team designed and installed four acute barrier sections, keeping the barrier flowing around the bridge structures. Works were carried out overnight to keep one of London’s busiest junctions moving, and in line with COVID restrictions in place at the time.

Curved barrier section protecting a bridge pier at Brent Cross

The Outcome

Main contractor FM Conway praised the Asset VRS team for its bespoke design, work ethic and professionalism.

“They are a pleasure to work with, being both a professional and reliable team. Following the first evening’s effort, the team confirmed a more efficient installation method. Following discussion, this was implemented successfully on the second evening.”

Barry Warren, Works Manager, FM Conway Structures Division

For Asset VRS, the project showed the value of close collaboration on complex structures.

“Being able to create bespoke barrier solutions for projects like Brent Cross can be both fascinating and challenging. Great teamwork and full customer engagement throughout all of our projects enable us to deliver protection to ageing and iconic interchanges across the network.”

Anthony Wright, Project Engineer, Asset VRS