Titanic Shipyard Cranes in Belfast to Undergo £3.1M Refurbishment

POLICY WIRE — Belfast, UK — Samson and Goliath, the two historic yellow cranes at Harland and Wolff shipyard in Belfast, are scheduled for a £3.1 million refurbishment. The iconic structures, pivotal in the construction of the RMS Titanic, will undergo significant upgrades to preserve their structural integrity and operational capabilities.

The refurbishment project, announced by local authorities, aims to extend the lifespan of the cranes, which have become symbols of Belfast’s rich maritime history. The work will include structural reinforcements, mechanical updates, and cosmetic repairs to ensure the cranes remain functional for future shipbuilding endeavors.

Samson and Goliath have been operational since the 1960s and 1970s, respectively, and have played crucial roles in various shipbuilding projects. Their preservation is seen as vital for maintaining Belfast’s industrial heritage and supporting the local economy.

Local officials have expressed optimism about the project’s potential to attract tourism and stimulate economic activity in the region. The refurbishment is expected to commence in the coming months, with completion projected within the next two years.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)