09.09.14
Selby Swing bridge re-opened after £14m works completed
The Selby Swing bridge has re-opened after Network Rail completed key stages in its £14m upgrade works on the structure.
Trains had been unable to run over the bridge, on the York-Selby-Hull routes, since 26 July while engineers replaced track, repaired steelwork, completed work to strengthen the bridge and improve the hydraulics. There was also a repaint for the structure.
Mark Tarry, area director for Network Rail, said: “This is the most significant improvement made to the bridge since it was built in 1889. Many parts of it will not need any further work for decades.
“Our engineers have worked around the clock to complete this work in the shortest possible timeframe and we thank passengers and local residents for their patience while it was carried out.
“An existing speed restriction on passenger services and a weight restriction for freight services can be lifted, improving the reliability of rail services on the route.”
Further work will continue on the bridge without the need to alter rail services. The project is due to be fully completed in November.
The bridge will not require further intervention on the same upgrade parts for:
Paint = 25years
Hydraulics = 20years
Strengthened Spans 3 & 4 = 60 years
Reconstructed spans 1, 2 & 5 = 120 years
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