Probe into how steel platform collapsed at lifting bridge

AN investigation is being carried out following the collapse of a huge steel platform of the under-construction Salford vertical lifting bridge next to Barton Bridge on the M60.

The deck, which has been raised into position, fell 60 feet to the ground yesterday morning.

Steel cables supporting the platform snapped, onlookers said. Emergency services attending the incident say no-one was injured.

The lifting bridge is part of a £50m project to improve traffic flow around the area in the Western Gateway Infrastructure Scheme, easing congestion between Peel’s Port of Salford and the Trafford Centre.

The project is a joint venture between Hochtief and Buckingham Group Contracting. Its aim is to ease congestion between Peel’s Port of Salford scheme and the Trafford Centre.

A spokesman for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said: “A bridge collapsed near the Barton Bridge structure next to the Manchester Ship Canal.

“We are liaising with the construction managers. Thankfully nobody has been involved.

“The ambulance crew has been released. Police remain at the scene investigating.”