01.04.2025

New flagship for Lawson

UK based Lawson Haulage and Crane Hire has taken delivery of a 250 tonne Grove GMK5250XL-1 All Terrain crane, its new flagship and its first Grove machine.

The five axle GMK5250XL features an eight section 78.5 metre main boom topped by an 18 metre bi-fold swingaway extension that can be extended to 34 metres with additional inserts. Features include Grove’s Maxbase variable outrigger setup, Megatrak suspension with all wheel steering and twin lock boom pinning system. Power comes from a single HVO ready Stage V Mercedes diesel which is said to offer a 30 percent reduction in fuel consumption compared to previous power units.

It will predominately be used to erect and maintain wind turbines despite having already completed its first job of changing out two turning wheels during a shutdown of the Egger UK wood plant in Hexham, Northumberland. Handling loads of 25 tonnes, the GMK5250XL-1 was configured with 80 tonnes of counterweight and 41.6 metres main boom for lifts at a 25 metre radius.

Crane manager Gary Audley said: "The GMK5250XL-1 handled the first job with ease, and the operation went extremely smoothly, allowing the plant to get back online quickly. We expect to see equally impressive results on wind turbine erection and maintenance, boat lifts, large dismantling works, and projects at Blackpool Pleasure Beach."

Assistant crane manager Grant Kennedy, added: "The new Grove GMK5250XL-1 has allowed us to handle heavier loads and to do jobs faster because, with the long boom, we can handle more work without needing a jib. We believe our GMK5250XL-1 will allow us to access more tier-one work while supporting our substantial existing customer base."

Founded in 1952 by Jim Lawson, family run Lawson Haulage operates transport, mobile and plant services from its base in Cockermouth, North West England. The company runs a fleet of 50 trucks, 12 of which are equipped with Hiab loader cranes, mobile cranes and telehandlers.

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