An enormous 90-tonne bridge was successfully lifted into place in Stockport over the weekend — connecting the town’s train station to its soon-to-be-built transport interchange.
The vast corten steel pedestrian and cycling bridge was carefully manoeuvred into its final position over Daw Bank using a 750-tonne crane. Because of its sheer size, the bridge was initially delivered in two pieces before being assembled into one complete structure on site.
The bridge is set to open in spring 2024, when the interchange will open its doors. The the 40m-long bridge will provide a traffic-free, accessible route connecting the new interchange to Station Road and onward to the railway station.
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Construction of the new transport interchange, has been underway since August 2021, and includes a new two-acre ‘podium park’ on the roof of the building, plus 196 apartments. Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham said the project will ‘transform’ Stockport town centre.
“The installation of the new bridge above Daw Bank is a major feat of engineering and marks an exciting milestone in the ongoing development of Stockport Interchange,” said the Labour politician. “The bridge is a key link connecting the new interchange to the railway station and will significantly enhance how residents and visitors access the town centre, whether they are walking, wheeling or cycling.
“We are witnessing not only the transformation of Stockport town centre, but the delivery of the wider Bee Network – our vision for an integrated transport system, connecting bus, rail and active travel and allowing seamless journeys across the borough and beyond.”
The interchange will form a core part of what’s called the ‘Town Centre West regeneration district’. Eventually, the 130-acre site will welcome new housing, leisure, workspaces, and amenities alongside the transport hub.
“The installation of the bridge over Daw Bank is another landmark moment at the Interchange development, which will now further link up all the regeneration work which is happening in our town centre,” said Mark Hunter, Leader of Stockport Council.
“The new bridge will ensure everyone can travel from Stockport Exchange and the train station to the Interchange, on to our brand-new two acre Podium Park and then onwards to the town centre in a car-free environment.”
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