Ross Bridge lifted as refurbishment project reaches key milestone

A major milestone has been reached in the refurbishment of Ross Bridge in Penzance, with the successful lift and removal of the 26-tonne structure ahead of its journey to Falmouth.

The complex operation, delivered by Cormac engineers, required careful planning and close monitoring of weather and sea conditions before safely going ahead.

At 6am on 23 February, the tug Vixen expertly manoeuvred a 40-metre barge into the narrow channel between the dry dock and the causeway. Positioned on the sea wall was a 650-tonne crane, one of only four of its kind in the UK, ready to carry out the lifting operation.

Using specialist lift rigging, the team connected the bridge using pre‑rigged lifting points and heavy-duty straps. The crane was established with a 90-tonne counterweight to ensure a safe and controlled lift.

Thanks to continuous monitoring, technical precision, and the skill of the teams involved, Ross Bridge was successfully lifted clear and secured onto the barge. By 8am the structure was safely on its way to the harbour basin before being transported to A&P Falmouth, where essential refurbishment works to the steel structure will take pace.

The refurbishment forms an important part of maintaining the long-term reliability of the bridge, which plays a key role on Penzance's local transport network. During the refurbishment period, a temporary bridge will be installed at Wharf Road to allow the road to reopen to traffic.

This successful lift highlights the expertise of Cormac's engineering teams in delivering complex infrastructure work in challenging coastal conditions.

More information and updates on the Ross Bridge refurbishment project can be followed via the Let’s Talk Cornwall website: Let's Talk Ross Bridge