Spence Crane Hire Marks 40 Years with New Liebherr LTM 1150-5.3 Mobile Crane
Updated: Jan 14
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Devon-based Spence Crane Hire has marked its 40th anniversary with the addition of a new Liebherr LTM 1150-5.3 mobile crane. The 150-tonne five-axle crane becomes the largest unit in the company’s fleet, supporting larger and more complex lifting operations across the south-west of England, including work for South West Water and EDF Energy.
New LTM 1150-5.3 joins anniversary fleet
Family-owned Spence Crane Hire has taken delivery of a high-specification Liebherr LTM 1150-5.3, marking four decades since the company was established.
The crane was formally welcomed into the company’s Devon yard by two generations of the Spence family, underlining the milestone nature of the fleet investment.
The new crane replaces a Grove GMK 5150L as the largest unit in the fleet and strengthens Spence’s capability for higher-capacity mobile crane lifts.
150-tonne mobile crane specification and capabilities
The Liebherr LTM 1150-5.3 offers a maximum lifting capacity of 150 tonnes and is configured with a fly jib featuring hydraulic offset, remote control, and winch and boom-head cameras.
Key performance details include:
66-metre main boom
19-metre double swing-away fly jib
Maximum hoist height of 92 metres
Maximum working radius of 72 metres
Under UK STGO regulations, the crane can travel on public roads carrying 29 tonnes of counterweight, with only two 8-tonne cheek weights requiring transport if the full 45-tonne counterweight is needed on site.
Roadability and ballast flexibility support regional work
The ability to travel with a significant portion of its ballast makes the LTM 1150-5.3 well suited to regional operations, reducing the need for additional transport and improving mobilisation efficiency.
This flexibility supports complex lifts while maintaining compliance with UK road regulations an important consideration for contractors operating across varied sites in the south-west.
Continued Liebherr fleet investment
The new crane forms part of a broader programme of Liebherr fleet investment at Spence Crane Hire. Later this year, the company plans to add a Liebherr LTM 1060-3.1 to its portfolio.
The fleet also includes 90-tonne and 100-tonne Liebherr mobile cranes, alongside spider cranes and mini crawler cranes, allowing the business to support a wide range of lifting requirements.
Leadership comments on the milestone delivery
John Spence, Director of Spence Crane Hire, said the new crane reflects both the anniversary milestone and the company’s long-standing relationship with Liebherr.
“To celebrate 40 years since Spence Crane Hire was established, we are happy to add the LTM 1150-5.3 to our fleet,” Spence said. “It replaces the Grove GMK 5150L as the largest crane in our company and allows us to continue serving clients with larger and more complex lifts. The 66-metre boom length and the ability to travel with 29 tonnes of ballast make it a valuable asset for our operations.”
Supporting infrastructure and energy projects in the south-west
Operating across the south-west of England, Spence Crane Hire acts as a main contractor to South West Water and to EDF Energy at the Hinkley Point B Power Station, delivering mobile crane services for infrastructure, utilities, and energy projects.
About Spence Crane Hire
Spence Crane Hire is a Devon-based, family-owned crane rental company providing mobile crane, spider crane, and mini crawler crane services across the south-west of England. Established 40 years ago, the company supports construction, utilities, and energy clients with a modern and versatile fleet.
Website: https://www.spencecranehire.co.uk
About Liebherr
Liebherr manufactures a comprehensive range of mobile cranes, crawler cranes, and lifting solutions for construction, infrastructure, and industrial applications worldwide. The LTM mobile crane range is known for its roadability, flexible ballast concepts, and high lifting performance.
Website: https://www.liebherr.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What crane did Spence Crane Hire add for its 40th anniversary?
The company added a Liebherr LTM 1150-5.3, a 150-tonne mobile crane.
What makes the LTM 1150-5.3 suitable for UK road travel?
It can travel under STGO regulations with 29 tonnes of ballast, reducing support transport requirements.
What is the maximum boom length of the crane?
The crane has a 66-metre main boom and a 19-metre fly jib.
What crane did it replace in the fleet?
It replaces a Grove GMK 5150L as the largest crane in the fleet.
Where does Spence Crane Hire operate?
The company operates across the south-west of England.
