The Great Yarmouth Third River Crossing is one of Norfolk’s most significant infrastructure projects in recent years which is being delivered by the BAM Farrans Joint Venture. Ipswich based Red7Marine, has been supporting the project since April, acting as the JV’s Marine Partner of Choice.
BAM Farrans began on site in January 2021, before beginning the overwater marine works and construction later in the year. Once complete, the bridge will link the A47 at Harfrey’s roundabout to the port and the enterprise zone on the other side of the river, easing traffic congestion and improving journey reliability. The bridge also supports the county’s wider plans to maximise investment, regeneration, and economic growth opportunities in the area.
Red7Marine’s 250t deck capacity Haven Seariser 3 jack-up barge was mobilised to site in April to facilitate the marine works which involved the excavation of the quayside and installation of piles to form the foundations for the Western and Eastern Bascule pits. The barge has recently demobilised from the site, but construction will now continue with plans to have the bridge operational and open to traffic by early 2023.
The piles were driven from the Haven Seariser 3 with the use of a piling gate to successfully guide them into position. Jack-up barges are ideally suited to marine piling operations, providing stable level platforms when working in overwater conditions.
Richard Hayman, Construction Manager for BAM Farrans comments: “The project is continuing well and the Red7Marine team have played a big part in the success of the cofferdam piling works.
The two cofferdams are an excellent milestone as we continue to bring this important infrastructure to life.
The spirit of cooperation between all involved has been exemplary and we look forward to working with Red7Marine in future.”
Nick Offord, CEO at Red7Marine comments: “We were delighted to be able to support the BAM Farrans JV at the Great Yarmouth Third River Crossing this year, a major infrastructure project that will shape the county.
Both BAM Nuttall and Farrans are key, repeat clients for us and we were pleased to be able to fulfil the role of Marine Partner of Choice once again.
We look forward to seeing the construction work continue and wish the BAM Farrans team the best of luck with the on-going works.”
