The 2,500-tonne bridge was moved into its final position with meticulous precision, ensuring it remained on the correct trajectory and was perfectly aligned. Work to remove the bridge's temporary 49-metre steel launch nose, weighing approximately 130 tonnes, is currently underway this week. This launch nose played a vital role in safely guiding the bridge across the gap between its supporting piers.
Councillor David East, executive member for highways at Lincolnshire County Council, hailed the installation as an 'incredible engineering achievement'. He stated, “Removing the temporary launch nose is an important milestone because it shows we’ve reached the end of the launch operation – a huge milestone for the project!” He added that the steel launch nose is being dismantled in sections by a team of ten using a 500-tonne crane, with all materials to be recycled.
With the bridge now in place, the project team will focus on permanently connecting the new structure to its piers. This will be followed by the construction of the rest of the bridge on the east side, including lifting new steel beams, concreting the decks, installing safety barriers, laying road surfacing, and undertaking embankment works.
Councillor East emphasised the ongoing work required before the relief road opens, stating, “There is still a lot of work to do… but each milestone brings us closer to delivering a new route that will help reduce congestion, improve journey reliability and support Grantham’s future growth.” He highlighted that the road will ultimately reduce traffic through the town centre, supporting new homes and businesses, and contributing to lower noise and emissions.
The Grantham Southern Relief Road scheme aims to ease congestion, improve access to new developments, and create a safer, more attractive environment by diverting traffic away from the town centre. For the latest updates, visit www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/gsrr.
