Fifty years ago tomorrow (Thursday) the Severn Bridge linking England with Wales was opened to traffic by The Queen. 

 

To mark the anniversary a new website – severnbridges.org – has been launched by The Severn Bridges Trust, detailing the development of both the first bridge and the Second Severn Crossing which opened 30 years later.

 

Robin Shaw FCIHT, one of the trustees of the new online resource, said: “The website has been designed for all who seek information on these iconic structures. It includes information on earlier crossings of the Estuary and the need for and construction of both bridges. No prior engineering knowledge is required.”

 

The website gives comprehensive details about the design and build of the Severn Bridge, describes how the bridge was later strengthened and mentions further problems associated with deterioration of the main cables.

 

At the time the Severn Bridge was the lightest suspension bridge in the world for its span and loading and the main span was the seventh longest in the world.

 

A further section on the website talks about the need for a second bridge, its design and build and challenges such as crossing a floodplain and the need for wind shielding.

 

Many old photographs and several construction diagrams are included on the website and there is a link to a video showing construction of the Second Severn Crossing.

 

The site also provides much fascinating detail about the ancient history of crossings at the Lower Severn Estuary, as well as background to the Severn Railway Tunnel.

 

To visit the website go to severnbridges.org

 

(Image courtesy of The Severn Bridges Trust)