The new crossing replaces the Old Tram Bridge, a timber link about 52km north-west of Manchester that connected the city of Preston and the district of South Ribble for over 200 years. Declared unsafe and closed in 2019, the historic structure was demolished in just 14 days earlier this year. Its successor, a sleek steel bridge with a 120-year lifespan, has been designed to cut environmental impact while supporting active travel. Once complete, the bridge will carry pedestrians, cyclists and horses.
Fabricated in East Lancashire by Harrisons Engineering, the four main sections were transported to site and installed using a Gottwald AK680-3 lattice boom crane supplied and operated by Sarens. Its 75m boom enabled precision lifts under tight riverside constraints. Each segment, weighing up to 150 tonnes, was hoisted into position over a period of eight days. Eric Wright Civil Engineering led the operation on behalf of Preston City Council and Lancashire County Council, managing the replacement from demolition to in-river pier construction and superstructure installation.
Designed by DYSE Structural Engineers to blend with the scenic setting, the crossing was backed by Levelling Up funding after a long-running ownership dispute. The US$8.3–$10 million scheme is part of the “Active Preston” programme. Works on site began in May last year. Final works are currently under way ahead of a spring 2026 opening.
