This was a relatively new bridge, only opened in March 1977, in comparison to many built just after the 1930s, designed to carry vehicles over a stretch of water. Whilst all such bridges undergo regular maintenance checks, this one was having work carried out at the time of the crash.
However, listening to engineers being interviewed throughout the day on Sky News, it lacked in design, supporting cables and didn't have large enough concrete supports at the base.
The new bridge cannot incorporate any of the remaining one as it will not be strong enough, therefore it will all need to be demolished before starting the rebuild, that will require a complete redesign with a more robust structure. A decision will need to be made whether to make it taller to accommodate the increasing size of ships, or to limit the size of vessels allowed to pass under it.
Does anyone know yet whether terrorism has been ruled out. It had been mentioned yesterday but not confirmed either way?
As I understand it, the ship had only just set off and had the usual safety checks passed. It was being operated by a third party. Why?
