ALE used one four row self-propelled transporter (SPT) and six rolling axles, fitted with bolsters to aid manoeuvrability, to transport the 28m-long vessels to the site just outside of King’s Lynn.
Once a detailed route survey had been conducted to identify possible choke points, ALE decided that some street furniture along the route would have to be removed prior to transport, and wire escorts would be needed to lift overhead power lines out of the way. A police escort was also in attendance ensure public safety around the abnormal load.
ALE project manager Andy Tite commented: “Even our smaller projects involve a great deal of planning and research; it is essential that each project is well planned to ensure safety and success.”
On arrival at the Port of King’s Lynn, the vessels were lifted onto four-spacer-four transport configurations, which were each pulled by an ALE heavy ballast tractor.
Once closer to the site, they were transferred onto the SPT/rolling axle transport system, which was chosen for the job as the compact system could be controlled remotely allowing easier navigation of the narrow road system on-site and other obstacles on the route.
The vessels were then offloaded onto their foundations on-site.
