Train on Rolling Bridge over South Dock, Newport 1914


Photo reference number: 1298

From "The Alexandra Docks, Newport" 1914:

"Access to the new South Quay from other parts of the dock is at present gained by crossing the South Lock, for which purpose a rolling bridge has been provided. This bridge carries a double line of rails, timbered to rail level, to form a continuance of the cart road at each end of the bridge, and an overhung footway on the east side for pedestrians. The bridge consists of ordinary "N" truss "hog-backed" type girders 157' 6" in length and 17 feet deep. The travel of the bridge is 107 feet, whilst the lock has a breadth of 72 feet. The whole structure is carried on brick piers and cast iron cylinders, the latter being 8 feet in diameter, and of an average depth of 54 feet. The lift of the bridge is 4 feet 2¾ inches, and the weight to be lifted about 450 tons. The hydraulic machinery installed for the purpose is capable of opening or closing the bridge in one minute. The bridge is situated on the outer side of the outer gates, thus enabling it to be brought into use immediately a vessel has entered the lock. The railway signals on either side of the gate guarding the approaches to the bridge, together with the levers for operating the bridge, are controlled from a signal cabin which has been erected on the north side of the lock. The movements of the bridge are interlocked with the railway signalling arrangements and roadway barriers on either side of the lock."