The concrete deck span was revealed when the moveable scaffolding system (MSS) called Trinity was opened on 11 February and subsequently moved to its second casting position.

This span connects the beginning of the approach viaduct from the north abutment in Widnes to the first supporting pier. It is the first of 11 spans that will be cast by the MSS for the deck of the approach viaduct on the north side of the River Mersey.
 
The span measures around 60 metres long and 18 metres wide. It is angled at 5 degrees to allow vehicles to travel safely around the curve of the approach road.

Construction teams worked around the clock to get the span ready. This involved pouring 1,146 cubic metres of concrete into the MSS non-stop over a period of 34 hours.

The approach viaduct deck is being constructed in three phases: the deck spans are constructed first by the MSS, then a deck slab is built on top of the span, and finally the outer deck or 'wings' are built by a wing traveller machine to provide the full six lane width of the approach road.

The MSS has moved to its second casting position ready for work to begin on the next span, which will be cast in March.

You can watch Trinity in action via the webcam located on site www.merseygateway.co.uk/live-view