Forge Island bridge lifted into place

AN 86-TONNE bridge — inspired by the world famous design by Rotherham’s Donald Bailey — is lifted into place at Forge Island.

The 46-metre pedestrian walkway will link the £47 million cinema and leisure development with Corporation Street.

It took two days to set up the crane which lifted the bridge into position in what officials called a “military precision operation”, taking about an hour.

Andrew Fairest, project director at developers Muse, said: “Rotherham’s engineering heritage was a wonderful starting point for the Muse team, offering a rich seam of inspiration and shaping our thinking around Forge Island.

“The bridge is a key part of this exciting new chapter in Rotherham’s story, linking the past with the present and future.”

The bridge was manufactured and installed by steel specialists SH Structures after design work from FaulknerBrowne Architects.

Eastwood-born engineer Bailey’s portable steel truss crossings helped the Allied forces cross the Rhine — shortening the the Second World War.

The bridge will be illuminated at night to create a visual feature of the key gateway onto Forge Island, which will also include a hotel and restaurants when it opens next year.

Cllr Denise Lelliott, RMBC cabinet member for jobs and the local economy, said: “This major milestone not only shows that the Forge Island development scheme is forging ahead, is it also showcases a symbolic connection between Forge Island and the heart of the town centre.”

A podium is now being built on the island to elevate the development above the River Don floodplain.

Construction work is being led by contractor Bowmer + Kirkland, working alongside the wider project team which also includes Arup, Helm Consulting, Arcadis and Re-form Landscape Architecture.