HUGE cranes have lifted sections of the new Kepax Bridge in Worcester into place.

Works to construct the new walking and cycling bridge over the River Severn have seen a 1000-tonne crane and a 350-tonne crane arrive on site to install the remaining bridge sections.

The two huge cranes began lifting sections into place last week, with further sections being installed this week.

Councillor Marc Bayliss, Worcestershire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport said: “This is an exciting time for the project. Now the bridge is starting to span the river, you can really start to see what the finished structure will look like.

“It does cause some disruption in the local area when these huge cranes are brought on to site, so I’d like to thank local residents for their co-operation and understanding during the deliveries.

“It’s fantastic to see works progressing well on this important project, one that will bring a major boost for the health and wellbeing of people who live, study, visit or work in Worcester.”

Once all the bridge sections are installed, further work is needed before the bridge becomes operational, scheduled for later in the year.

RECOMMENDED READING: Kepax Bridge stalls after contactor goes into administration

RECOMMENDED READING: Kepax Bridge huge crane lowers key piece into place

Works are nearing completion on the Horsford Road access, and all ground works on the west side of the river. Once the bridge sections have been installed, works continue on the bridge to install the parapets, expansions joints, abutment works and lighting over the next few months.

Works are dependent on suitable weather conditions and may be subject to change.

The bridge will be a cable supported bridge, with the main span reinforced by cables connected to a single tower on the east side of the river. It will help to reduce traffic on the roads and promote health and wellbeing by providing additional capacity for people to walk, wheel and cycle.

Worcestershire County Council and Worcester City Council are working in partnership on the project.