Sunderland, U.K. - A first on site milestone is reached for VBSC with the installation of LIFTs 1 and 2 of the New Wear Footbridge.

The two bridge sections, LIFT 1 and 2 form the northern part of the footbridge spanning the River Wear. LIFT 1 is approximately 53 m long while LIFT 2 measures 30 m. Both weigh approximately 200T. We fabricated the sections, like the remaining two LIFTs in our workshop in Wondelgem. On 31st of July we loaded them on the transport barge (HEBO's P-54) for the voyage to Sunderland.

In the period from 6th to the 8th of August we installed both bridge sections with an LR11350 crawler crane of Mammoet UK on the north side of the river. We meticulously positioned LIFT 1 on its temporary supports on the North Abutment and Temporary Tower.  Next, we coupled LIFT 2 with the previously installed LIFT 1 on the temporary tower and put LIFT 2 down on the North Pier.

The two LIFTs are now awaiting the arrival of the final 2 sections to complete the new link between the stadium of Sunderland AFC and the city centre. Meanwhile, we are finalising the joint and preparing for the erection of LIFT 3 and 4.

The New Wear Footbridge forms the centrepiece of the ambitious Riverside Sunderland regeneration project.  Victor Buyck Steel Construction is building the new bridge for the Council of the City of Sunderland, together with VolkerStevin.