A major milestone has been reached in the construction of a new bridge over the River Clyde.
In total, 95 piles have been completed to create the foundations for the south landing area of the Govan-Partick bridge.
Each pile, 23 metres in height and weighing four tonnes, has been driven to a depth of 14 metres below riverbed level.
The £29.5m pedestrian-cycle crossing between Water Row in Govan and Pointhouse Quay in Partick, will re-establish the historic link between the two areas.
Work began at the start of the year and the crossing is due with completion expected in spring 2024.
'Significant'
Farrans Construction are building the bridge for Glasgow City Council.
Council leader Councillor Susan Aitken, chair of the Glasgow City Region Cabinet, said: “The Govan-Partick Bridge is significant at a local, regional and national level as it will not only reconnect communities on both banks of the Clyde, but link major institutions and emerging regeneration projects along an arc between the West End and Greater Govan.
“We can look forward to watching the successful progress of the bridge as the project develops in 2023.”
The Scottish and UK governments are investing millions in the riverside corridor through the City Deal partnership.
Scottish Government Business Minister Ivan McKee said: “This active travel bridge will help spur regeneration in the wider area.
This is the first significant construction milestone of this project, and we are pleased that we are running to programme. Marine piling is a challenging activity that can be heavily impacted by adverse weather, tidal conditions and unforeseen obstructions in the river.
David Buchanan
“It highlights just how transformative projects within the Glasgow City Region City Deal can be, restoring the historic link between these well-known Glasgow neighbourhoods.
UK Government Minister for Scotland, Malcolm Offord, said: “The bridge across the Clyde will be convenient, safe and eco-friendly.
“It will also give residents and visitors the chance to explore Glasgow's historic riverside.
David Buchanan, Project Manager at Farrans Construction, main contractors for the project, said: “This is the first significant construction milestone of this project, and we are pleased that we are running to programme.
“Marine piling is a challenging activity that can be heavily impacted by adverse weather, tidal conditions and unforeseen obstructions in the river.
“Our next step is to complete the southern cofferdam, dewater and start concrete works on the southern pier on which the bridge will pivot.
'Positive'
“As part of our activity on this important project we are working closely with the local community and supporting the work of fantastic organisations.
“We recently paused work to facilitate a ‘quiet hour’ positive experience for autistic visitors and their families at the Riverside Museum in Glasgow.
“We have a number of initiatives underway which will deliver a positive lasting impact for the city of Glasgow through skills and apprenticeships, supporting charitable organisations and working with local supply chain.”
