Scott Street Bridge: Dismantling a Historic Structure with Engineering Precision

26 November 2025

Scott Street Bridge was more than an engineering structure, it stood as a cultural icon. Banksy’s artwork, created during Hull’s City of Culture 2017, drew global attention. Alan Wood and Partners (AWP) oversaw its safe removal and future display plans, ensuring the preservation of an important cultural asset for the city.

A detailed condition survey of Scott Street Bridge, a Grade II-listed structure in Hull, carried out by AWP in 2018 for Hull City Council found the structure had deteriorated to the point of being structurally unsafe. Hull City Council subsequently appointed AWP to manage the dismantling process. The project aimed to remove health and safety risks associated with structural failure and collapse, safeguard river traffic, and preserve cultural assets, including the Banksy artwork created during Hull’s City of Culture 2017.

Project Overview

  • Type of WorksCivil Engineering
  • ClientHull City Council
  • Contract Value£900,000
  • Primary ObjectiveRemove health and safety risks, safeguard river navigation, and retain cultural assets

Engineering & Design Challenges

  • Historic Structure

    Required listed building consent and conservation measures

  • Defective Steelwork

    Bridge was at risk of collapse from minimal external intervention

  • Active River Trade

    Works had to maintain safety for river traffic

  • Cultural Preservation

    Banksy’s artwork required careful removal and conservation

AWP’s Role: End-to-End Engineering Deliver

Alan Wood & Partners provided complete professional services, ensuring seamless delivery from concept to completion. Responsibilities included:

  • Detailed condition survey of bridge structure.
  • Engineering Design and Project Management.
  • Regulatory Approvals: Planning Approval, Listed Building Consent, Marine License, and Environmental Permit.
  • Tender Development and Contract Administration.

Services Delivered

  • Civil Engineering
  • Structural Engineering
  • Geotechnical Engineering
  • Project Management

Results Delivered

  • Historic England objections resolved and removed through consultation.
  • Banksy’s artwork safely removed and stored for future display.
  • Controlled dismantling of bridge while preserving heritage components.
  • Street works included reclamation and reuse of granite setts and installation of feature parapet rails.

Why Choose Alan Wood & Partners?

  • Agile approach to problem solving for complex heritage and engineering challenges.
  • Specialist knowledge base in-house ensures integrated solutions.
  • Assessment of environmental risks protects waterways and ensures compliance.
  • Proven ability to balance safety, heritage, and commercial viability.