The Netherlands / UK, England: Collett & Sons Ltd has successfully completed the transport and installation of a 205-t Kolektor transformer, moving it from Rotterdam in the Netherlands to Statkraft’s Thornton Greener Grid Park in North Yorkshire.
The project combined international logistics, challenging weather and detailed route planning to ensure the safe delivery of the oversized unit. Measuring 9.9 m long, 3.6 m wide and 4.2 m high, the transformer required specialist transport equipment and careful coordination throughout the operation.
Delivered in September 2025, the works involved abnormal load road transport, roll-off vessel operations and on-site hydraulic jacking and skidding. The multi-stage programme demonstrated Collett’s ability to manage technically demanding heavy transport projects from initial planning through to final installation.
At the Port of Rotterdam, the transformer was loaded onto a 550-t Scheuerle girder frame trailer that had been pre-assembled and shipped to the port in advance aboard the Terra Marique, operated by Robert Wynn & Sons. Two port cranes carried out a tandem lift to place the transformer onto the trailer before it was secured for transport to the UK.
On arrival at Hull’s Albert Dock, the transformer was driven directly off the vessel using a purpose-built ramp system. A 16-m section of quay was unable to support the loaded vehicle, requiring Collett to design and install a bespoke ramp to safely span the weak area. With no alternative unloading option available, the solution relied on detailed engineering assessments and precise execution.
Project planning took more than a year and included extensive route surveys and structural checks along the 38-km (30-mi) route from Hull to the site. This also covered late changes, such as a downgraded structure on the A63, which required rapid reassessment to keep the project on track.
Source: Collett & Sons
