Spencer Bridge Engineering were appointed by Cumbria County Council to design, construct and install a 39-tonne steel bascule lifting bridge spanning 20m across the mouth of Elizabeth Dock into Maryport Harbour.
The structure is based on a traditional Dutch canal bridge design and at the time of installation, was the only one of its kind in the UK. It is hydraulically operated with counterweight assistance and is controlled by a remote radio control from the Harbour Managers Office, approximately 600m away.
The purpose of the project was to design, construct and install a bridge across the mouth of Elizabeth Dock into Maryport Harbour, providing pedestrian, wheelchair and cycle access from the town centre into the harbour complex. The bridge was installed as a replacement for a walkway over the top of the dock gates which was removed for safety reasons.
The hydraulic lifting mechanism is operated by harbour staff from 600m away. CCTV cameras were installed for monitoring purposes, with flashing lights and a klaxon warning pedestrians when the bridge is due to be lifted.
The erection of this bridge was considered vital in promoting the harbour as a tourist destination and developing the Maryport Cycle Network.
Local school children were invited to name the structure, selecting ‘Ellenfoot Bridge’ in reference to Maryport’s original name, with an official opening event held to celebrate its completion. The bridge is now widely recognised by this name and continues to form an important part of the local infrastructure.
