Sarens Completes Installation of Dikke Linde Bicycle and Pedestrian Bridge in Brussels

30 Second Takeaway

Sarens has completed the installation of the Dikke Linde bicycle and pedestrian bridge over the A12 in Brussels, delivering a complex heavy lift crane operation in an urban environment. The project supports safer crossings for cyclists and pedestrians while highlighting Sarens’ expertise in urban bridge installation under constrained conditions.

Industry Context and Urban Mobility Needs

European cities continue to invest in infrastructure that supports pedestrian and cyclist safety while improving urban mobility and sustainability. Delivering bridge infrastructure in live urban environments requires experienced contractors capable of managing complex urban lifting operations while maintaining traffic flow, public safety and tight schedules.

Urban bridge installations demand precise planning, specialised crane configurations and close coordination with authorities, particularly when working above major road networks and within confined spaces.

Complex Lift Delivered in a Constrained Urban Environment

Sarens completed the installation of the new bicycle and pedestrian bridge at Dikke Linde over the A12 in Laken, Brussels. Commissioned by CSM, the project aims to provide a safer and more accessible crossing for cyclists and pedestrians, supporting improved urban mobility in the area.

The bridge measures 46 metres in length and 9 metres in width and weighs 120 tonnes. While the original plan called for two 700-tonne cranes, the structure proved heavier than expected. An additional 200-tonne crane and a lifting triangle were mobilised to support the heavy lift crane project and ensure accurate positioning.

Once the main cranes had stabilised the load, the smaller crane was removed, allowing the bridge to be placed precisely.

Crane Configuration and Execution

Sarens deployed an AC700 with guided boom, an LTM 1230-5.1 and an LTM 1650-8.1 to execute the lift, enabling precise mobile crane operations in a confined urban setting.

All cranes were mobilised from Sarens’ headquarters and reached the site in less than 15 minutes. Road closures were managed in stages to allow equipment to arrive progressively, with all cranes set up and ready by midday. The lift began at 1pm and was completed within the planned schedule.

The job site was constrained by surrounding trees and constant traffic. Approximately ten crew members worked together to coordinate the lift with accuracy at every stage.

Additional Urban Footbridge Installation in Dunkirk

In addition to the Brussels project, Sarens recently took part in the installation of the new Corderies pedestrian footbridge in Dunkirk, France. The structure replaces a historic footbridge originally built in 1898 and demolished last year, restoring a key pedestrian connection between the Route de Furnes and Coudekerque-Branche.

For this project, Sarens Dunkirk was commissioned by BC Metalnord to provide lifting support. The operation was carefully planned to minimise disruption in the central urban area, with different phases scheduled during the day and night.

The loading of the footbridge took place during the day at GRPI APPLITECH on Avenue de la Gironde, while the final lifting operation at the installation site was carried out at night to reduce traffic impact.

Two cranes were used for the operation:

• LTM1120-4.1 for daytime loading operations

• GMK6300 L-1 for the final lift, configured with 92.5 tonnes of counterweight and a 47.32-metre boom

The GMK6300 L-1 was selected for its ability to safely perform a 25-tonne lift at a 25-metre radius and was fully set up and ready for lifting by 10:00 p.m.

The site presented several challenges, including compliance with a strict five-metre clearance and a prohibition on rotation on the side opposite the lift due to a nearby high-voltage line. The main lift involved installing a section of the pedestrian footbridge measuring 25 metres long and 3 metres wide, with a weight of approximately 25 tonnes.

Despite the confined environment and tight schedule, the operation was completed smoothly through close coordination between all teams involved. The successful delivery further highlights Sarens’ expertise in infrastructure crane services and heavy lift crane operations in urban environments.

Infrastructure Impact

The Dikke Linde bridge installation in Brussels attracted strong public interest and was attended by the Minister of Mobility, highlighting the importance of the project within the city’s transport network. Beyond the engineering achievement, the bridge enhances local connectivity and supports safer, more sustainable transport infrastructure.

Together with the Dunkirk footbridge installation, the projects demonstrate Sarens’ ability to deliver complex urban lifting solutions across Europe while maintaining safety, precision and efficiency.

About Sarens

Sarens is a global provider of heavy lifting, engineered transport and crane rental services. The company supports major infrastructure, civil, energy and industrial projects worldwide, delivering complex lifting solutions in both urban and remote environments through specialised equipment and experienced crews.

Visit website: https://www.sarens.com

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the Dikke Linde bridge in Brussels?The Dikke Linde bridge provides a safe and accessible crossing for cyclists and pedestrians over the A12 in Laken. The project supports improved urban mobility by separating non-motorised traffic from busy road infrastructure.

What challenges were involved in installing the bridge?The installation took place in a confined urban environment with live traffic, nearby trees and ongoing roadworks. The bridge’s weight exceeded initial estimates, requiring additional lifting equipment and careful coordination.

Which cranes were used for the Brussels bridge installation?Sarens used an AC700 with guided boom, an LTM 1230-5.1 and an LTM 1650-8.1, with an additional 200-tonne crane assisting during positioning.

What was involved in the Dunkirk footbridge installation?The Dunkirk project involved installing a 25-metre-long pedestrian footbridge section weighing approximately 25 tonnes using an LTM1120-4.1 and a GMK6300 L-1, with night-time lifting carried out to minimise traffic disruption.

Why are heavy lift crane operations important in urban infrastructure projects?Heavy lift crane operations enable the safe and precise placement of large structural elements in confined spaces, ensuring accuracy while minimising disruption and maintaining public safety.