Spencer Bridge Engineering were appointed by EMH Ltd to design and install two new bridges and an associated walkway over the River Hull in order to improve access to The Deep Visitor Centre.
The scheme involved the design and construction of a 34m span Swing Bridge across the navigable River Hull forming the pedestrian entrance to ‘The Deep’ Ocean Research and Visitor Centre. The bridge forms part of a waterfront promenade and provides pedestrian access from central Hull to ‘The Deep’ aquarium, as it joins the Humber’s estuary.
The architectural form of the bridge features an elevated counterweight box with balance loads being transferred through pre-tensioned bars. The contract included the complete electrical drive and control system featuring 5 invertor-controlled drive units, each comprising a 5.5kW braked motor and epicyclic planetary gearbox with a torque limiter between, providing drive system protection in the event of ship impact with the bridge.
As part of the wider scheme of works, the project team also designed and constructed 100m of fixed spans and an additional demountable bridge over the existing dry-dock, including piled foundations and a blocked paved walkway area. The majority of works were undertaken utilising Spencer Bridge Engineering’s internal floating craft, the ‘Meeuw’, reducing the amount of land required for construction.
Spencer Bridge Engineering engaged their marine partner, Qualter Hall, to assist with the delivery of the scheme. The company worked closely with Hull City Council and the marine authorities to ensure the River Hull remained open to boats when necessary and no unplanned disruptions occurred. As part of the commissioning phase, the company trained EMIH Ltd and Hull City Council in the operation of the bridge from the control building.
