The Experience Bridge sets course from Temse to Hasselt after impressive transport operation

Spectacular turning operation marks key technical milestone

At the end of May, the entire Experience Bridge was successfully rotated at C-metal’s production facility. The architectural steel structure, consisting of eight separate sections, was turned with exceptional precision using multiple cranes. This technically challenging operation was made possible through meticulous preparation, advanced engineering and seamless collaboration between all teams involved.

The successful rotation was a crucial step in preparing the bridge for transport to Hasselt.

Preparations for transport by water

To facilitate this exceptional transport operation, several preparatory works were carried out in recent days. The waterway was dredged and approximately one metre of silt was removed to provide sufficient draft for the transport.

The bridge was then transported from the production area to the quay using Self Propelled Modular Transporters (SPMTs). Once at the waterfront, the structure was carefully loaded onto a pontoon using several cranes. Around midday, the bridge departed from Temse towards Hasselt, where it will soon take its place as a prominent feature along the Blauwe Boulevard.

Impressive dimensions

The Experience Bridge is not only architecturally striking but also technically impressive. The steel structure measures 56.19 metres in length, 14.45 metres in width and 5.16 metres in height. With a total weight of 157.5 tonnes, both its transport and installation represent a significant logistical challenge.

A new connection for Hasselt

Cordeel Belgium and C-metal are building the Experience Bridge on behalf of Stad Hasselt. The bridge forms part of the ongoing development of the Blauwe Boulevard and will create an important connection between Hasselt’s city centre and the redeveloped canal district. Beyond its functional role as a crossing, the bridge has been designed as a true Experience Bridge: a place where infrastructure, architecture and quality public space come together.

With its departure from Temse, the Experience Bridge is now one step closer to its final installation in Hasselt. It marks a special moment for all partners and team members who contribute every day to the realization of this unique Design & Build project.

Press articles

• HLN, 157 ton zware brug vertrekt vanuit Temse per schip naar Hasselt: “Hele operatie is een technisch hoogstandje”
• Het Nieuwsblad, Brug van bijna 160 ton vertrokken uit Temse via ponton langs Schelde en Albertkanaal tot in Hasselt
• Gazet van Antwerpen, Brug van bijna 160 ton vertrokken uit Temse via ponton langs Schelde en Albertkanaal tot in Hasselt
• Waaskrant, Cordeel Group transporteert brug per boot richting Hasselt
• Evoke PR, Nieuwe brug vertrekt per boot richting Hasselt van bij Cordeel Group