Among the new tasks will be the start of work on the inner structures of the cofferdams in the river. Other activities soon to get under way include a series of diversions and the creation of a new site compound.
The project’s centrepiece is a 1,000m-long cable stay bridge consisting of four spans supported from three towers in the estuary.
Construction of the exterior of the south cofferdam is nearing completion and the project team is now starting to stockpile sand ready for the infilling work to begin. This involves pumping locally sourced sand into the structure to create a dry environment. Approximately 8,000 tonnes of sand will be used in each cofferdam. The sand needs to be mixed with water for the pumping process and the Environment Agency has given permission to use water from the River Mersey for the work. The water will then be filtered back into the river.
An access platform, ramp and walkway will be built to enable the construction teams to enter the cofferdam to start work on the sheet piling for the inner structure at the end of January. The exterior of the north cofferdam, which is due to be finished in January, will be infilled in a similar way.
The Merseylink Consortium was appointed by Halton Borough Council earlier this year on a 30-year contract to design, build, finance and operate the project. The construction joint venture is made up of Kier Infrastructure & Overseas, Samsung C&T and FCC Construcción.
