Landmark moment as first spans of Waterford's new bridge arrive in city from Antwerp
A barge carries the first of the bridge spans for Waterford’s Sustainable Transport Bridge. Photo: Peter Grogan
A landmark moment was reached in the development of Waterford City this week, as spans of the much-anticipated sustainable transport bridge have arrived after their sea-going journey from Antwerp.
In the early hours of Sunday morning, May 19, the GPS Avenger arrived on the River Suir, towing the first set of spans for the new bridge.
The tug navigated the estuary in spectacular weather, with its cargo destined to transform Waterford’s North Quays.
The bridge spans are now positioned at Frank Cassin Wharf where the large-scale yellow Hebo 9 floating crane awaits the lifting and installation phase.
Described by Waterford City & County Council as "towering and awe-inspiring", the Hebo 9 crane, which can be seen from vantage points miles from the city centre, is also moored alongside Frank Cassin Wharf, as it awaits the arrival of additional barges carrying more bridge sections.
“The transport, lifting and installation of the four steel deck sections is a complex logistical and engineering challenge,” a spokesperson from Waterford City and County Council said.
The bridge, a centrepiece of the North Quays Public Infrastructure Project, will provide a connection between Waterford’s city centre and the new North Quays development. Still to come are the final spans, en route aboard the tug Anteos, completing the picture before installation begins.
