Trough bridge near Glindenberg to be closed for ships, cyclists and pedestrians
The trough bridge near Glindenberg will be drained at the end of March. The reason for this is an inspection of the structure. From March 31 to May 23, neither ships, pedestrians nor cyclists will be able to cross the bridge.
Europe’s longest canal bridge over the Elbe first had to be drained and then cleaned for the inspection. This is the only way to get a clear view of all components and allow a reliable assessment of their condition. Repairs and maintenance work, especially on the corrosion protection of the steel components, will also be carried out during the work, according to the responsible Elbe Waterways and Shipping Authority. Corresponding signs will be posted on site. Watercraft can use the Elbe as a detour, passing through the Rothensee and Niegripp locks. The respective ship’s command must take into account the water levels on the Elbe and allow a little more time.
Friedrich Meyer, head of the department responsible, says: “Draining the canal bridge is like a large construction site. A wide variety of trades have to work and be coordinated in a confined space. The basis for this is a tight schedule. In order to complete all the work on time, the employees of the Elbe Waterways and Shipping Authority and the contracted companies are working hand in hand. This approach ensures that everything runs smoothly.”
The canal bridge near the Wolmirstedt district of Glindenberg crosses the Mittelland Canal over the Elbe and is therefore an important element of the east-west connection for shipping. The structural inspection of the bridge, which is 918 meters long in total, is carried out in order to detect and repair damage in good time and to ensure safe and trouble-free use of the structure.