THE next stage in a critical project to replace Balliemore Bridge in Cowal has been carried out.
The original crossing was demolished following its partial collapse during a severe weather event on October 2023, with a diversion road and temporary bridge slightly upstream being in place since.
Six precast, 15- metre long, pre-stressed concrete deck beams arrived on site ready to be installed onto the reinforced concrete abutments on Wednesday 4 June ahead of the build of the new bridge.
A 130 tonnes capacity crane was required to take into account the safe working radius and capacity of the lifting operations. Beams were lifted into place successfully, and are being secured together. The next stage will be to install pre-cast wing walls, and further deck reinforcement in preparation for the in-situ concrete deck pour.
Councillor John Armour, policy lead for roads, amenity, and transport services at Argyll and Bute Council, said, “It takes an enormous amount of planning and engineering to get to this stage of a project, and I commend everyone who has been involved. I know it has been very complex.
“The temporary bridge has served its purpose well, and I now look forward to the new Balliemore Bridge standing proud for many, many decades to come after completion.”
