SubscribeAtkins have been working for the last three years with the Airport’s of Montenegro on a major modernisation programme of the countries airports.
The main focus of the programme has been at Pogorica the capital's Aerodrome Crna Gore where six new aircraft stands, new taxiway system and CAT1 AGL system are nearing completion. Additionally the construction of a new 5000m2 terminal building, fire rescue station and car park and utilities upgrades are well underway with completion expected during 2006.
Strategically the development of Aerodrome Crna Gore is key to the countries economic growth in providing a gateway for tourists visiting the Adriatic coast.
Finishing work to Pavement Quality Concrete
Atkins has been involved extensively with the European Bank funded project undertaking scheme and detailed designs and preparing tender documentation for various work packages. Project Manager Rob Jenner said 'A requirement for the work to be tendered within the region and internationally required all documentation to be prepared in both Serbian and English language to a demanding programme proved a particular challenge'.
The upgrade to the airfield infrastructure, designed by Atkins, has been sized to cater for Boeing 767 aircraft. To accommodate such aircraft has required the construction and refurbishment of 1.5km of taxiway system along with 30,000m2 of aircraft apron in Pavement Quality Concrete (PQC).
General view of new apron and terminal building
Site investigation for the pavement design confirmed the site was underlain with gravel deposits with CBR values in excess of 30% being achieved. The initial design was for 330mm PCQ on a 150mm Dry Lean Concrete (DLC) base; however as part of value engineering exercise the DLC was replaced with a Cement Treated Base (CTB) layer thus recycling the insitu material.
Trial mixes of the CTB proved it to be particularly good raising concerns it would attain too high a strength. Adjustment of the cement content during trials was required achieved the desired mix strength. The PQC was laid between forms using a 7.5m ABG machine. A mix of local and imported labour was used by the Contractor to achieve the high strength and finish requirements of the concrete pavements.
Atkins current involvement is the supervision and contract administration of the airfield pavement and aeronautical ground lighting works supported locally and from the UK.
View from air during construction