More sections of Lowestoft's Gull Wing Bridge arrive as construction continues
A massive crane has been brought in to move the two sections - which have a combined weight of over 300 tonnes
Several new sections of Lowestoft's Gull Wing Bridge have arrived into town via barge, as construction continues.
Sections 1 and 3 of the South Approach Viaduct (SAW) were brought into port last night (April 23), after being transported from Ghent in Belgium.
SAV 1 is 35m long and weighs 105 tonnes, while SAV 3 is 41m long and 213 tonnes.
A huge crane on the banks of Lake Lothing is now moving the sections off the barge, allowing it to return to Ghent to collect SAV 2 and SAV 4.
The four sections will be bolted and welded together in the coming weeks, before concrete is poured around the structure to strengthen it.
Simon Bretherton, from Suffolk County Council, said: “The arrival of these next sections will see the structure take shape for the first time on both sides of Lake Lothing.
“This is another major step forward and we continue to make good progress on building what will be an iconic structure providing a new era for jobs, businesses and connectivity for the town of Lowestoft and the wider area.”
Neil Rogers, project director for Farrans Construction, said: “This week’s arrival of four large sections of the bridge is an important and busy time for our site team.
“A lot of planning takes place in advance of the sections being transported into Lowestoft and, once here, we will be beginning the process of lifting these elements into position almost immediately.
“To have one of the largest cranes in the world on site for this project is a fantastic learning opportunity for our apprentices, graduates and placements.”
The road bridge spanning Lake Lothing is being built at a cost of ÂŁ148m and will be higher than the town's existing Bascule Bridge.
The new crossing is expected to open in December this year.