Sarens' Role in the Installation of the Middle Dock Pedestrian Bridge: A Leap Towards Urban Revitalization in Canary Wharf
In an impressive display of engineering prowess, Sarens has successfully completed the installation of the Middle Dock Pedestrian Bridge, a landmark project located in the vibrant Canary Wharf district of London. This endeavor is a crucial component of the Eden Dock Activation project, which reflects the area’s commitment to improving urban livability through extensive greening initiatives.
The new bridge not only facilitates pedestrian access across the once-isolated Middle Dock but also integrates into a broader vision that includes a series of floating terraces and landscaped public spaces. This design concept aims to reconnect the community with the waterfront, fostering a spirit of engagement with the environment amidst the bustling urban landscape.
Sarens undertook this complex operation on behalf of Victor Buyck Steel Construction, under the detailed oversight of Canary Wharf Contractors. The bridge, which stretches an impressive 56.3 meters and weighs 185 tons, was transported from its assembly point at Park Place to its final resting place, spanning the Middle Dock, which had previously been inaccessible to pedestrians. The operation required meticulous planning and execution, showcasing Sarens’ logistical and engineering expertise.
To facilitate the movement and installation of the bridge, Sarens deployed two 5-axle TII KAMAG K2400ST Self-Propelled Modular Transporters (SPMTs) along with a modular barge system comprising fifteen pontoon containers, provided by MPS. Given that the Middle Dock is no longer linked to the River Thames, the use of modular barges proved to be the sole feasible method for transporting the bridge. The barges were delivered in ten 40-foot and five 20-foot containers, and upon arrival at the site, they were carefully assembled to create a floating platform measuring 30.5 by 12.2 meters.
One of the most significant challenges faced during the planning phase was managing the height difference between the quay, where the bridge was loaded, and its designated installation location. Increasing the size or height of the barge was not an option due to the constraints of the surrounding environment, including limited water depth and quay levels. As a solution, Sarens proposed to lower the water level in the dock by approximately one meter once the barge was positioned, a strategy that required additional time and resources. With cooperation from the project client, the team mobilized extra pumps and worked tirelessly to reduce the water level over the course of 48 hours, ultimately making the bridge installation feasible.
Once the barge was positioned and the SPMTs assembled, the bridge was meticulously loaded and transported across the dock. The journey was supported by three small tugs—Theo, Geo, and Challis—provided by Taska Marine. This segment of the operation required precise navigation through confined spaces, underscoring the importance of coordination and communication among the team members.
In total, a considerable logistical effort was involved in bringing the necessary equipment to the site, with 23 trucks transporting materials from various locations across Europe. At its peak, a dedicated crew of 13 professionals was engaged in managing the operations, including a project manager, engineers, operators, and support staff from both Sarens and the client. Their collaborative efforts were instrumental in navigating the complexities of this technically demanding operation.
The partnership with MPS was vital, particularly in light of the unavailability of Sarens’ SMB barges. MPS not only provided the modular pontoons required for the operation but also assisted with their assembly on-site.
The successful completion of the Middle Dock Pedestrian Bridge marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to enhance urban infrastructure and sustainability in London. The bridge now serves as both a practical mode of connection and an aesthetic centerpiece, contributing to the overall liveability and accessibility of one of the city’s most dynamic neighborhoods. As urban centers continue to evolve, projects such as these highlight the importance of innovative solutions in reconnecting communities with their natural environments.
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