By
Elizabeth Robinson |
Construction work has started to build a new cruise terminal in Liverpool, UK after plans were approved in April this year.
An overwater jack-up platform has started site investigations on the bedrock where the new facility will be built. The new permanent terminal, which will replace the current cruise facility, will enable the city to accommodate the world’s biggest cruise ships on the UNESCO World Heritage waterfront.
“Liverpool is used to welcoming majestic vessels to the Mersey, like Cunard’s Queen Victoria the other day, but this unusual looking jack-up platform is arguably our most critical visitor this year given the importance of the work its carrying out,” said Joe Anderson, Mayor of Liverpool. “It is a symbolic moment for the next chapter in the city’s maritime future as these site investigations will determine the foundations upon which our new cruise terminal will be built.”
Liverpool City Council has appointed building and civil engineering contractors McLaughlin & Harvey to carry out the first stage of a two-stage design and build contract. The first stage will consist of supporting the council’s appointed design team, led by Ramboll UK, to finalise the design and construction method. This will include completing the controlled demolition of the existing derelict Princess Jetty.
The main contract works involve the construction on a suspended deck structure and the erection of a vehicle linkspan bridge and pedestrian bridge/walkway to connect the new terminal to the existing landing stage.
The team will also make improvements to the existing landing stage. This will involve the modification the lower cruise terminal reception building and relocating it to the northern end of the pontoon and creating ancillary buildings for storage and use by operational staff. Princes Parade will also be improved to incorporate pedestrian crossing facilities, terminal parking and pick-up and drop-off facilities.
Preparation at Princes Dock in Liverpool Waters is expected to start in October 2018.