Pictures: Big moment for Kilkenny and South-East as new bridge swings into place over River Suir

A new chapter of connectivity between South Kilkenny and Waterford began on Thursday as a new bridge swung into place over the River Suir.

The new bridge arrived in four massive parts, carried upstream by barge from Belview Port in Kilkenny, at which they had arrived last week. At 207m, the bridge will be one of the longest city centre pedestrian river crossings in Ireland.

The new sustainable transport bridge is part of the multi-million euro North Quays project, set to transform the region by delivering new investment and economic vigour.
READ: Massive new development expected to be 'hugely significant' for Kilkenny

A Hebo 9 sheerleg crane lifted each bridge section from its barge at Frank Cassin Wharf and transported it upstream to its installation position at the bridge. The transport, lifting and installation of the four steel deck sections wais a complex logistical and engineering challenge, and the process had to be coordinated with the tidal cycle on the river.

Like Rice Bridge upstream, the sustainable transport bridge has an opening central span to allow river vessels to pass through, smaller boats can pass underneath the bridge, subject to tides. The inclusion of this opening central span retains potential for future upstream river transport as well as opportunities for maritime events and festivals, including a possible return of the Tall Ships Festival.

These types of vertical opening bridges are called ‘Bascule Bridges’ from the French term for a balance scale and originated in medieval Europe as drawbridges to defend castles and towns. Whereas Rice Bridge is a ‘single leaf’ bascule bridge, which opens from one side of the central span, the new bridge is a ‘double leaf’ bascule bridge, which opens from both sides of the central span.

The bascule leaves for the opening central span will now be tested and put into operation. The bridge finishing works, which includes the final surfacing, lighting, street furniture, and parapet railings, will commence as well as the installation of the downstream bridge pier protection system.

It is anticipated that the bridge will open to the public in the final quarter of next year. In April, Waterford City and County Council granted planning permission to Harcourt Developments (t/a Hopcast Limited) for the development of the first phase of the North Quays SDZ.
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NORTH QUAYS DEVELOPMENT
The mixed-use North Quays development will include significant residential accommodation, as well as office and hotel accommodation, retail offerings and high-quality public realm spaces consisting of: 350 residential units, office accommodation including ground floor creche and retail, 160-bedroom hotel and conference centre, and a 163-room aparthotel.

It will also include retail units on the ground floor of residential blocks, and high quality public realm spaces like public plazas, a riverside boardwalk and greenway.