19.05.20
Bedfordshire bridge upgrade progress continues
Network Rail has made significant progress on a project to upgrade Bromham Road bridge in Bedfordshire and it is now open for pedestrians and cyclists, which will help to maintain social distancing.
NR has opened the footpath on the south side of the bridge for pedestrians, as well as a provisional opening half of one carriageway to cyclists. This means that people can access the new bridge when they are out on their daily exercise, whilst following Government guidelines and staying at least two meters apart.
Bromham Road closed in June 2019 and access has been maintained for pedestrians and dismounted cyclists via a temporary footbridge, which is being removed. At the start of the lockdown, the road closure was extended until Summer 2020, which has allowed part of the road to safety open for cyclists whilst work continues on the project.
NR engineers have already carried out key work to demolish Bromham Road bridge and reconstruct it at a raised height. The developments are part of the £1.5bn Midland Main Line Upgrade and will deliver a safe distance for overhead line equipment to pass beneath the bridge, allowing the line between Bedford, Kettering and Corby to be electrified.
The final stages of the project are currently taking place, which includes work on the embankment and removing the temporary scaffold bridge. So, this work can take place safely, Bromham Road is expected to remain closed to motorists until summer 2020 with a signposted diversionary route in place.
Principal Programme Sponsor for Network Rail, Gavin Crook, said: “Pedestrians and cyclists in Bedford can now access the new bridge over the railway when they are out exercising, whilst following Government guidelines and staying at least two metres apart.
“We would like to thank people in Bedford for their continued patience whilst this essential work is carried out. Once the Midland Main Line Upgrade is complete, passengers will benefit from increased capacity and more reliable services.”
Image: Network Rail