Hamburg, June 5 – The Freihafenelbbrücke, a vital artery for Hamburg’s port traffic, has been impassable since a ship collision six months ago. The Hamburg Senate is now exploring the construction of a provisional replacement bridge, according to NDR information.
Freihafenelbbrücke Damaged in Ship Collision
In October of last year, an inland vessel collided with the 120-year-old Freihafenelbbrücke, causing significant damage. Since then, the bridge has been closed to traffic, and a simple repair is not possible. The bridge is largely to be demolished, its central section completely rebuilt, and the curved side arches fundamentally renovated. The construction work on the listed bridge is expected to take twelve years, with work beginning in late summer.
Provisional Bridge to Alleviate Traffic Issues
The closure has created a significant void for truck traffic, a concern voiced by associations and the opposition. To maintain traffic flow during the twelve-year renovation, the Senate has approved three million euros for planning costs. The objective is to build a provisional replacement bridge to the west of the New Elbe Bridges.
The route of the Freihafenelbbrücke is also planned to be used as a temporary railway bypass. This means that a temporary rail connection is planned there instead of the road bridge, as the adjacent railway bridges also need to be renewed. Further details on this are not yet known.
Transport Senator Anjes Tjarks (Greens) emphasized the need for quick and decisive action regarding Hamburg’s mobility.
Partial Demolition Planned After Ship Accident
Following the ship accident in autumn, it is clear that the central section of the Freihafenelbbrücke must be demolished for safety reasons.
This topic was broadcast on NDR 90.3 | NDR 90.3 Aktuell | 05.05.2026 | 17:00 Uhr.
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Source: ndr.de
