A HUGE 70-tonne footbridge has been lifted into place across the Regent’s Canal in East London. It was being lowered into position today (Thurs) in four sections by a giant crane and will eventually link two cut off’ neighbourhoods in Bethnal Green, either side of the canal

A HUGE 70-tonne footbridge has been lifted into place across the Regent's Canal in East London.

It was being lowered into position today (Thurs) in four sections by a giant crane and will eventually link two 'cut off' neighbourhoods in Bethnal Green, either side of the canal.

The pedestrian crossing is to connect Meath Gardens off the Roman Road with Mile End Park and the clump of turnings sandwiched between the busy A1205 Grove Road and the overhead main-line railway into London's Liverpool Street station.

CONVOY

The bridge deck arrived by road during the night in a heavy goods convoy from the Midlands.

The 500-tonne 'telescopic' crane lifted each section into place, weighing 24 tonnes, 23 tonnes, 14 tonnes and four tonnes.

Ramps are being added later as well as landscaping and pedestrian and cycle paths, expected to be open to the public in October.

The �2 million project includes �300,000 from the Big Lottery Fund and the rest from Sustrans charity which campaigns to overcome barriers such as busy roads, railways or rivers that divide communities.