Contractors are now working to move the 293m long bridge further along into position.
Cllr David East, executive member for highways, said: “The second of three bridge pushes is underway now, meaning we should have the new relief road bridge across the East Coast Main Line and River Witham this autumn.
“A lot of planning has gone into this operation, and I’m very glad to say everything is going to plan. Moving a 2,500 tonne steel and concrete hulk like this is no easy job. Getting it into place over the rail line is a very complex feat of engineering that requires absolute precision and accuracy to ensure the bridge stays on course and aligned with the piers it will permanently rest on.
“With the team continuing to make steady progress, the relief road is currently on track to open in 2028.”
When complete, the 3.5km Grantham Southern Relief Road will improve journey times and provide Grantham with a reduction in congestion, disruption and delays. It will also create a safer, more attractive and accessible town centre; enable economic growth by providing access to development land; and help reduce carbon emissions and noise pollution within the town.
Sam Edwards, head of highways infrastructure for Lincolnshire County Council, added: “To position the new bridge safely and accurately, the team is carefully moving it into place from the west side of the site, taking it over the river and rail line and beneath the overhead power lines.
“We’ve already completed the first of three pushes and the second one is now happening. The bridge is being pushed forward while supported on temporary structures, before being transferred onto its permanent supports. Although progress may appear slow, moving only a few millimetres each minute, this level of precision is essential to ensure the bridge remains perfectly aligned throughout the operation.
“Once the bridge has crossed the rail line this autumn, work will continue on the eastern side of the site. This will include installing additional steel beams, concreting the bridge decks, fitting safety barriers, laying the road surface and completing embankment works leading up to the structure.”
Below are some facts and figures about the new relief road bridge:
- The bridge weighs approximately 2,500 tonnes
- It spans 293 meters in length and is 16 meters wide
- Briton Fabricators in Hucknall manufactured the bridge
- The new deck is a composite steel and reinforced concrete deck
- The steel beams and piers are made of weathering steel to reduce long-term maintenance
For the latest news on the Grantham Southern Relief Road, visit www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/gsrr.