Installation of the supporting pillars of the Sustainable Transport Bridge in County Waterford is expected to commence tomorrow (May 21), marking a significant step forward in the major North Quays project.

Following the arrival of the impressive Hebo 9 floating sheerleg crane and the four spans of the Sustainable Transport Bridge, it is anticipated that once the sheerleg and barges are derigged and mobilised the lifting and installation of the bridge sections can proceed.

The Hebo 9 sheerleg crane will lift each bridge section from its barge at Frank Cassin Wharf and transport it upstream to its installation position at the bridge. This process will be coordinated with the tidal cycle on the river.

The four lifts will be carried out over four days:

• Wednesday, May 21 – North Main Span (c.65m in length);

• Thursday, May 22 – South Main Span (c.65m in length);

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• Friday, May 23 – North Approach span (c. 35m in length);

• Saturday, May 24 – South Approach span (c.35m in length).

Temporary support frames that have been constructed in the river will initially support the sections pending their final integration into the permanent supporting piers.

Discussing the works, a statement from Waterford City and County Council said: "Safety is of paramount importance and the lifting operation has very precise safety protocols requiring very slow and methodical progress with constant checks and monitoring during the operation."

The sustainable transport bridge has an opening central span to allow river vessels to pass through, while smaller boats can pass underneath the bridge, subject to tides. The inclusion of this opening central span retains potential for future upstream river transport as well as opportunities for maritime events and festivals, including a possible return of the Tall Ships Festival.

This type of vertical opening bridge is known as a 'bascule bridge' and this new bridge is a 'double leaf' bascule bridge, which opens from both sides of the central span.

Once the bridge is installed, the bascule leaves for the opening central span will be tested and put into operation. The bridge finishing works, which includes the final surfacing, lighting, street furniture, and parapet railings, will commence as well as the installation of the downstream bridge pier protection system. 

The fast-tracking of integration works as part of construction of the SDZ by Harcourt Developments will facilitate the opening of the bridge to the public in Q4 2026.