The original crane was installed in 1968 and in its heyday proved vitally important to the Salt business, but was decommissioned a number of years ago. The new crane boasts a 98ft span from wheel to wheel, and weighs 10 tonnes—with a 5 tonne bucket.
Steve Nott said: “The original plan was to refurbish the existing crane, but it soon became apparent that the technology was outdated and we needed to bring a new one in.”
The crane, supplied by Technical Cranes, was transported from Rotherham using a rear steer trailer (photos right). The two beams of the crane were actually reversed over the humpback bridge on Cledford Lane while provisions were in place to control traffic.
“It’s perked the place up now, with its new blue and yellow paint. But more importantly it’s all made up of modern technology, electric controls, and its salt resistant.”
The crane will be used to collect salt from stores in large quantities during periods of production downturn, and ensures our Salt business will continue to run smoothly and efficiently all year round.