22/08/2026
This week marked a huge milestone for the Sappers Bridge project with the successful installation of the bridge deck. The eight deck sections, each weighing between 4.6 and 4.9 tonnes, were assembled on site before being carefully lifted onto a floating NATO pontoon. Each section was then transported beneath its final position and raised into place between the main suspension cables using 90t and 130t cranes positioned on opposite banks of the river. To ensure the bridge remained evenly loaded throughout the process, sections were installed alternately from east to west until both sides met in the centre. One of the most anticipated moments of the entire project was fitting the final centre section. After months of planning, design and construction, we're delighted to report that it slotted perfectly into place, with every bolt hole aligning exactly as intended.
Sappers Bridge is a project of national significance and represents the first true suspension pedestrian bridge to be constructed in the UK for almost a century. This is a fantastic achievement not only for the project team but also for Welsh engineering. This milestone is a testament to the skill, dedication and teamwork shown by everyone involved. We would like to thank Conwy County Borough Council for their vision, support and commitment to delivering this iconic structure, together with our Engineers, supply chain partners and specialist subcontractors who have all played a crucial role in reaching this stage.
The successful installation of the deck demonstrates that we have the expertise, innovation and engineering capability here in Wales to deliver some of the most challenging and complex infrastructure projects.
This achievement feels particularly special as 2026 marks 25 years since MWT Civil Engineering was founded by Mike Thomas. Having personally priced and planned the project since tender stage, Mike has remained closely involved throughout its delivery and was proud to be on site overseeing this week's installation.
Watching the final deck section fit perfectly into place was a proud moment and a reminder of how far the company has come in the last 25 years. What began as a small local business is now delivering one of the most significant bridge projects undertaken in Wales in recent years.
To make the occasion even more memorable, Mike's son, Alex, was also part of the installation team. While seeing the next generation helping to deliver such a landmark project was a proud moment for the family, the ultimate achievement belongs to the wider MWT team, whose teamwork, skill and professionalism have made this possible and continue to drive MWT forward.
There's still plenty of work ahead before the bridge opens to the public, but seeing the full deck in place is a proud moment for everyone involved.
👏 Well done to the entire MWT team, Conwy County Borough Council, our engineers, supply chain partners and specialist subcontractors for helping make this landmark project a reality.
Buckley's Mobile Crane Service GreenGrass Services Ltd
