24.08.20
£9.1m of improvements for Kent and South East London railway
Network Rail are set to replace a 130-year-old bridge as part of its programme of engineering works this August Bank Holiday.
The work, which may affect some journeys in Kent and South East London, to replace the bridge at Catford, South East London, engineers will also be replacing points, the moveable rails which allow trains to change tracks, at a very busy junction near Crayford.
The work will take place between Saturday 29 August and Monday 31 August.
The junction at Crayford was originally fitted as part of wartime resilience for the railway, and it is now one of the busiest on Southeastern’s Metro network, linking Sidcup with Dartford.
Replacing the points there will help improve the reliability for passenger journeys across the area.
With freight trains currently limited to a 15mph speed restriction over the bridge, it was constructed circa 1890 and strengthened in 1916, the replacement will put a stop to further speed restrictions and disruption.
Network Rail have said over the next few years they are investing £1.25bn to upgrade track, signalling, embankments, structure, stations and depots to give passengers in Kent and South East London better journeys, with fewer delays.
The funding will help combat years of underinvestment in the Kent network, replacing old equipment with new and more reliable technology to support improving trains performance and keep people moving for decades to come.
Network Rail’s route director for Kent, Fiona Taylor, said: “We know there is never a good time to close the railway, but the replacement of these life expired assets is vital to improve the reliability of journeys for our passengers.”
Southeastern Train Services Director, Scott Brightwell, said: “This is another important project under the South East Upgrade that helps to improve our service. It will give our passengers more reliable journeys by reducing the risk of delays. Thanks for bearing with us while this essential work is carried out.”
Image: Network Rail