Widnes–Runcorn Transporter Bridge

Widnes–Runcorn Transporter Bridge
Coordinates53°20′48″N 2°44′11″W / 53.3466°N 2.7363°W / 53.3466; -2.7363
Carries
  • Vehicles
  • Pedestrians
Crosses
LocaleWidnesRuncorn
Characteristics
DesignTransporter bridge
Longest span300 metres (1,000 ft)
Clearance below25 metres (82 ft)
History
DesignerJohn Webster
Construction start1901 (1901)
Opened1905 (1905)
Closed1961 (1961)
Location
Interactive map of Widnes–Runcorn Transporter Bridge

The Widnes–Runcorn Transporter Bridge crossed the River Mersey and Manchester Ship Canal linking the towns of Runcorn and Widnes. Completed in 1905, it was Britain's first transporter bridge and the largest of its type ever built in the world. It continued in use until 22 July 1961, when it was replaced by a through arch bridge, now known as the Silver Jubilee Bridge. The transporter bridge was then demolished.