Nantes Bridge Installation Nears Completion After Grueling Journey
The final stage of installation for the Anne-de-Bretagne bridge in Nantes, France, is anticipated to begin on Saturday, March 7th, with the barge carrying the bridge structure expected to navigate the Loire River late in the day. Nantes Métropole and the project consortium – GTM Ouest / Dodin Campenon Bernard / Cimolai – announced the planned timeline.
A Long and Winding Road
The bridge component, constructed by Cimolai in Monfalcone, Italy, began its journey on October 26th. The 150-meter long, 42-meter wide, and 25-meter high structure was transported on the barge Paula, accompanied by two tugboats. The initial Mediterranean crossing proceeded smoothly until the convoy encountered challenging weather conditions after passing the Strait of Gibraltar.
Forced to seek shelter in the Gulf of Cadiz, Spain, the convoy briefly returned to the Mediterranean Sea, finding refuge in Almeria in mid-January. The journey then involved being transferred to the semi-submersible vessel Trustee (Boskalis) to navigate the Gulf of Gascony, avoiding further exposure to adverse weather.
Weather Delays and River Conditions
The transfer to the Trustee occurred on February 7th, but progress towards Saint-Nazaire was hampered by unfavorable conditions. The convoy waited for several days behind Belle-Île, unable to unload due to poor weather. The unloading finally took place on February 25th in Lorient.
However, the river Loire’s high water level, caused by heavy rainfall and upstream flooding, combined with strong tides, prevented the immediate continuation of the journey upriver. The barge was held in the port of Lorient awaiting a suitable weather window.
Final Approach and Installation
With improving conditions, a decrease in river flow, and more favorable tides expected, the barge Paula is scheduled to begin its ascent of the Loire on Saturday. Nantes Métropole and GTM Ouest stated that the structure will be turned near Trentemoult and then moored at the port of Cheviré. This maneuver will be the last before the definitive installation of the Anne-de-Bretagne bridge, with the date for this final step yet to be announced.
Did you know?
The bridge structure weighs 3,000 tonnes and was transported as a single unit throughout much of its journey.
FAQ
When is the bridge expected to be fully installed?
The date for the final installation is still to be determined, but will follow the mooring at the port of Cheviré.
Where was the bridge constructed?
The bridge was constructed in Monfalcone, Italy, by Cimolai.
What caused the delays in the installation process?
Delays were caused by adverse weather conditions, including storms in the Mediterranean and the Gulf of Gascony, as well as high water levels and strong tides in the Loire River.
What is the size of the bridge structure?
The bridge is 150 meters long, 42 meters wide, and 25 meters high.
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