25.09.17
Lincolnshire bridge replacement to ‘greatly benefit’ freight
Network Rail is to upgrade a railway bridge in Vernatts Drain, Lincolnshire, as part of the Railway Upgrade Plan.
The project, which will see a £1.5m investment into the network, will demolish the structure and replace it with a new, ready-made bridge, which will be stronger and able to carry heavier freight trains.
The freight industry contributes £870m to the economy each year, and helps to reduce congestion by taking lorries off the road.
Route managing director at Network Rail, Rob McIntosh, said: “The work we are carrying out at Vernatts Drain will be of great benefit to the freight industry.
“Demand for rail freight is set to grow by 30% over the next decade and it is vital that we make improvements to our railway, so that we can cater for this growth and ensure we are able to provide a network which meets the needs of the economies and communities our railway serves.”
The main piece of work, which will be on the line between Spalding and Sleaford, will start on 21 October and is scheduled for completion on 24 October, during which time no trains will be able to run on the line.
The pedestrian crossing will be temporarily closed between 2 October and 6 November.