Millau Viaduct
Millau, France [INTERNATIONAL] · 2001–2004 · £345 million (converted from €394 million, 2004 prices)
The judgement call
Account-gated at launchThe innovative incremental launching method allowed for efficient construction of the deck at height. - The design successfully integrated aesthetic considerations with complex structural engineering, creating an iconic landmark. - The project demonstrated effective public-private partnership (concession model) for financing and delivery of major infrastructure. - Its construction broke several world records, showcasing advanced engineering capabilities.
Key engineering challenges
Building the world's tallest bridge piers and highest road bridge deck in Europe. - Utilizing a relatively new construction method to make the bridge floor through the roof (incremental launching). - Designing for extreme wind conditions in the Tarn Gorge. - Managing the logistics of constructing a massive structure in a challenging geographical location.
Project facts
- Client / owner
- French State (concession to Eiffage Group)
- Lead contractor
- Eiffage Group
- Lead designers
- Michel Virlogeux (structural engineer), Norman Foster (architect)
- Project type
- new build
- Scale
- 2,460m total length; 343m highest point (world's second tallest bridge); 290,000 tonnes of steel; 127,000 cubic meters of concrete; 8 continuous spans, each 342m long.
- Disciplines
- Civil; Structural; Architectural; Geotechnical
- Standards & frameworks
- European design standards
Sources: Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Millau_Viaduct - ICE: https://www.ice.org.uk/what-is-civil-engineering/infrastructure-projects/millau-viaduct - Foster + Partners: https://www.fosterandpartners.com/projects/millau-viaduct/ - Freyssinet: https://www.freyssinet.com/case-study/millau-viaduct-construction/ - ResearchGate (Construction Processes and Strategies): https://www.researchgate.net/publication/365737105_Construction_Processes_and_Strategies_of_Millau_Viaduct