ROSS Bridge in Penzance has been successfully lifted onto a barge as part of an ongoing refurbishment project.

Based on a forecasts of calm conditions, at 6am this morning [Monday, February 23], the tug Vixen skilfully manoeuvred the 40‑metre barge into the channel between the dry dock and causeway, positioning it with precision. A 650‑tonne crane — one of only four of its type in the country – was already in place on the sea wall, ready to be attached to the bridge.

Using specialised lifting rigging, evenly distributed to balance the load, the 26‑tonne bridge was connected using pre‑rigged lifting points and straps, and the crane then stabilised with a 90-tonne counterweight to balance it.

The bridge was raised slowly, lifted over the sides of the barge, lowered into position, and secured for transport. The sea wall was continuously monitored for potential signs of movement caused by the combined weight of the crane, bridge and lifting gear.

By 8am, Ross Bridge was being towed around to the harbour basin, where it now awaits its onward journey to A&P Falmouth later this week. This next phase will take place once sea conditions around Lizard Point are confirmed to be safe and suitable.

A temporary bridge will be put in place in the coming days to allow the road to re-open for this stage of the project. Cormac hopes to have the bridge back before Easter, dependent up on getting a weather window of calm seas for the barge.