Emormous Hebo crane arrives in Waterford ahead of sustainable bridge structure 

The enormous crane arrived ahead of the superstructure for the new sustainable transport bridge
Emormous Hebo crane arrives in Waterford ahead of sustainable bridge structure 

The HEBO 9 lift crane arrives in Waterford City. Pic: Joe Evans

A historic event occurred in Waterford on Saturday, May 17, when, under a sunny blue sky, the mighty HEBO 9 floating crane arrived off the coast of Dunmore East.

The arrives marked a very significant and important moment in the transformation of the Waterford North Quays development.

HEBO Lift 9 floating crane being towed by Dutch Power barge into Waterford Harbour. Pic: Peter Grogan.
HEBO Lift 9 floating crane being towed by Dutch Power barge into Waterford Harbour. Pic: Peter Grogan.

Towed by the aptly named tug 'Dutch Power', the Hebo barge sailed into view with the colossal crane secured on deck.

A spokesperson for Waterford City & County Council commented: "Towering and awe-inspiring, the Hebo 9 has now docked at Frank Cassin Wharf, where it awaits the arrival of additional barges carrying bridge sections."

HEBO Lift 9 floating crane being towed by Dutch Power barge into Waterford Harbour. Pic: Peter Grogan
HEBO Lift 9 floating crane being towed by Dutch Power barge into Waterford Harbour. Pic: Peter Grogan

"The crane will then begin the detailed task of lifting those sections into place over the River Suir, forming the new Sustainable Transport Bridge," said the spokesperson.

The bridge will form a centrepiece of the North Quays Public Infrastructure Project.

HEBO Lift 9 floating crane being towed by Dutch Power barge into Waterford Harbour. Pic: Peter Grogan.
HEBO Lift 9 floating crane being towed by Dutch Power barge into Waterford Harbour. Pic: Peter Grogan.

The HEBO Lift 9 is a seagoing floating sheerleg crane with a lifting capacity of 800 tonnes. Measuring approximately 67 metres in length and 27 metres in width, it is equipped with dynamic positioning capabilities, allowing for precise manoeuvring during complex lifting operations.

The superstructure for the new bridge is due to arrive in Waterford within the coming days.

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