Welcome to Yorkshire
News • July 22nd, 2026
|Spencer Bridge Engineering, a multi-disciplinary engineering firm based in Hull, has recently received a prestigious accolade for its exceptional work on the historic Menai Suspension Bridge. On July 22, 2026, the company was awarded the title of Bridge Project Team of the Year at the New Civil Engineering (NCE) Bridges Awards, recognising their impressive hanger replacement project on this iconic Grade I-listed structure. This award not only highlights the expertise of the Spencer Bridge Engineering team but also underscores the importance of maintaining such vital infrastructure in the UK.
Significance of the Menai Suspension Bridge
The Menai Suspension Bridge is a crucial connection between mainland Wales and the Isle of Anglesey, facilitating the daily travel of approximately 46,000 vehicles. Opened in 1826, it stands as the second-oldest suspension bridge in the world still in operation for vehicle traffic. The bridge's historical and functional significance makes its maintenance essential, not just for current users but also for preserving a vital piece of engineering heritage.
Innovative Engineering Solutions
The award-winning project involved the replacement and painting of 168 wire rope hangers, which are essential components that support the bridge's structure. By replacing these hangers, Spencer Bridge Engineering restored the full structural integrity of the bridge and eliminated a critical risk to public safety. The project was executed in collaboration with UK Highways A55 Ltd, which has been responsible for the bridge's operation and maintenance for nearly 30 years.
During the project, the team demonstrated exceptional leadership and innovation. They designed custom equipment to safely remove the existing hangers while protecting the surrounding structure. This careful planning was crucial, especially as the work had to be carried out while allowing traffic to continue using the bridge. The project faced challenges such as stringent safety regulations, the bridge's historical status, and the harsh coastal climate, but the Spencer Bridge Engineering team successfully navigated these hurdles.
Collaboration and Expertise
The hanger replacement project was a joint effort, involving several key partners. COWI UK served as the permanent works designer, while Fatzer AG supplied the hangers. The integration of specialist manufacturers ensured that every aspect of the planning, testing, and execution phases was meticulously managed.
This collaborative approach not only facilitated the project's completion but also ensured that valuable lessons learned would benefit future infrastructure projects.
Luke Fisher, the Bridges Director at Spencer Bridge Engineering, expressed the team's pride in receiving the award:
“Winning the Bridge Project Team of the Year Award is a great honour and fitting recognition of the skill, dedication and collaboration shown by everyone involved in this project.”
Fisher also acknowledged the contributions from UK Highways A55 Ltd and COWI, highlighting that the award is a testament to the teamwork that made the project a success.
Recognition from Industry Experts
The judges at the NCE Bridges Awards praised Spencer Bridge Engineering for their outstanding collaboration and technical innovation:
“Tasked with replacing 168 hangers on a major suspension bridge whilst keeping a vital crossing operational, this team demonstrated outstanding collaboration, coordinating daily with highway authorities, government stakeholders, and key suppliers throughout delivery.”
This recognition from industry experts not only celebrates the achievements of Spencer Bridge Engineering but also sets a standard for future projects in the field of bridge engineering.
Looking Ahead
As a leader in high-level bridge works, Spencer Bridge Engineering continues to build on its reputation for the sympathetic renovation and repair of historic crossings. The company has previously completed significant projects, including the refurbishment of the Union Chain Bridge, the world’s oldest suspension bridge still carrying traffic. Their innovative approaches, such as the development of the trademarked Cable Crawler gantry system, further demonstrate their dedication to preserving and maintaining the UK's vital infrastructure.
The success of the Menai Suspension Bridge project not only enhances the safety and reliability of this important crossing but also serves as a reminder of the value of skilled engineering and collaboration.
