Mariners given warning ahead of transport bridge arrival next week

Port of Waterford has this week published a Mariners Notice for the construction of the sustainable transport bridge, advising of restrictions on navigation for the duration of the lifting and installation operations.

The notice applies to all ship owners, shipmasters, agents, stevedores, fishing vessels, pleasure craft users, seafarers and fishery organisations.

On or about Thursday May 22, the crane barge “Hebo Lift 9” will commence installation of the Sustainable Transportation Bridge in Waterford.

The operation will be supported by the tugs Anteos, Dutch Power and GPS Avenger, and the Barges Hebo P54 and P71.

The Hebo Lift 9, barges and tugs will operate between Frank Cassin Wharf and the Sustainable Transport Bridge Piers.

Preparation for lifting is expected to take 2 -3 days and thereafter, lifting operations are expected to take 4 days to complete, weather and progress permitting.

During lifting operations, the Hebo Lift 9 will deploy anchors and mooring lines to maintain her position.

The mariners report outlines that an exclusion zone of 200m will be in force around the Hebo Lift 9 during operations and all vessels are instructed to keep well clear.

It states: “The exclusion zone will be enforced by attending safety boats. All vessels involved in the operation will maintain a continuous VHF watch on Channels 06 & 16 and will display regulation shapes and lights as per I.R.P.C.S. All mariners are reminded of their responsibilities under the International Collision Regulations.

“On completion of the installation works, the Sustainable Transport Bridge will remain in the closed position for up to two weeks.”