05.04.16
New bridge opens at Iver over GWML as part of Crossrail preparations
A new bridge across the Great Western Main Line in Iver designed to be high enough to accommodate electrified Crossrail trains is now open.
The 110m long Thorney Lane Bridge opened to vehicles and pedestrians in the early hours of 2 April.
It allows room for overhead cables to be installed for electric trains, which are faster, more reliable and more environmentally friendly than diesel trains.
Matthew Steele, Crossrail programme director at Network Rail said: “We are extremely pleased to have opened the new permanent Thorney Lane Bridge.
“I’d like to thank everyone in the local area for their patience while we carried out the work. The opening of the bridge marks a big milestone for the Crossrail project in the local area.”
Over the next few weeks, the lanes at Iver station will now close one at a time for resurfacing work and connecting utilities.
A temporary bridge, which has acted as a replacement since October 2014, is now closed and will be removed later this spring.
The Great Western Main Line electrification scheme has suffered severe delays, but the first overhead wires were installed in November and Sir Peter Hendy published revised completion dates in January.
(Image c. Crossrail)