Massive operation underway to install city's new bridge

THE operation to transport Cork's newest bridge to its final location is underway in Cork Harbour.

The Mary Elmes Bridge will connect Merchant's Quay to Patrick's Quay.

The 165-tonne pedestrian and cycle bridge, which has been named after World War II aid worker Mary Elmes, is to be transported by barge from the lower harbour where it was assembled.

engineering company Keating Construction had cranes in place to lift the structure onto the barge that will bring the bridge up to the city centre.

In a delicate operation, it is expected the Mary Elmes bridge will pass under Brian Boru Bridge on Thursday or Friday.

The two cranes will then be erected in the city centre at Merchant’s Quay and Patrick’s Quay on Friday with the superstructure lifted from the barge and placed on specially built abutment supports the following day — subject to weather conditions.

The bridge will be used by up to 11,000 people each day and was fabricated by Thompsons of Carlow.