The 70-year-old bridge was removed and transported to Sheffield for specialist repairs to extend its life
The major lifting operation of Weel Bridge(Image: East Riding Of Yorkshire Council)
A 20-tonne metal lifted bridge over the River Hull in Beverley has been successfully removed in an “incredibly difficult and specialist operation” as part of a £1m refurbishment project. In a substantial engineering feat, the 70-year-old Weel Bridge was extracted clear of its bearings from the riverbanks at the end of Grovehill Road using a 250-tonne crane on Saturday (April 18).
The aluminium structure, which carries traffic over the river between Beverley and the village of Weel, was hoisted onto a lorry before being transported for specialist refurbishment in Sheffield. The bridge’s removal has resulted in the temporary closure of the route for around 12 weeks, until it can be reinstalled in July. It has also led to the closure of the Weel Household Waste Recycling Site due to access difficulties.
The extensive renovation is intended to strengthen and repair the bridge, enhance safety and access for traffic, and prolong its lifespan. The works will also include the installation of a modern control system and the creation of a new dedicated shared pathway across it for pedestrians and cyclists.
Councillor Paul West, East Riding of Yorkshire Council cabinet member for environment and transport, said: “Lifting out the bridge was an incredibly difficult and specialist operation, but I’m pleased everything went to plan and it proved to be a spectacular sight. Work can now begin on our essential refurbishment of this 70-year-old structure to make it stronger, safer and ready for the future for the many drivers, cyclists and pedestrians who use it.
“We completely understand the impact the closure will have on local people, and we want to thank residents for their patience while we can put the improved bridge back in place.”
Saturday’s engineering achievement was undertaken by council contractors Esh Construction alongside its specialist subcontractors, who will be carrying out the bridge upgrade. Esh Construction has previously collaborated with the council on the restoration of Bubwith Bridge and Stamford Bridge, and is currently refurbishing the Tyne Bridge in Newcastle and Drypool Bridge in Hull.
Steven Garrigan, divisional director at Esh Construction, said: “The successful removal of Weel Bridge represents the first major operation of a highly complex and carefully coordinated refurbishment programme. Lifting and transporting a 70‐year‐old aluminium bascule bridge requires detailed planning and close collaboration, and the operation reflects the expertise of everyone involved.
“Removing an entire bridge for refurbishment is an unusual operation and highlighted a unique engineering challenge for the team as we seek to preserve this historic structure.”
During the bridge’s absence from the site, the contractor will take advantage of the road closure to realign the approach, enhancing visibility and safety for motorists, while also creating a shared footpath and cycle route. Throughout the temporary closure, drivers will be unable to access Grovehill Road in Beverley from Weel Road, and vice versa.
Vehicles travelling to and from Weel are being redirected along Weel Road and the A1035 Bridlington to Beverley road until the project is complete.
The bridge was originally constructed in 1953. Its last significant refurbishment took place in 2012, though it has been shut on several occasions for brief periods to carry out minor maintenance work. Weel Bridge is a bascule bridge, which means it can be raised and lowered to accommodate river boat traffic passing beneath it.
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