Network Rail is set to begin a major infrastructure upgrade programme this September, replacing four ageing railway bridges carrying London Overground services over roads in Forest Gate. The scheme, focused on the Suffragette line between Leytonstone High Road and Woodgrange Park, is designed to improve long-term reliability and minimise the risk of unplanned disruption.
The bridges—located at Talbot Road (E7 0DX), Strode Road (E7 0DU), Stracey Road (E7 0HG) and Latimer Road (E7 0LH)—are now more than 130 years old. While each structure continues to be closely monitored and remains safe for use, Network Rail has confirmed that replacement is essential to ensure the resilience of the route for decades to come. The new bridges are expected to remain in service until approximately 2150.
Phased delivery to minimise disruption
Work will begin on 1 September at Talbot Road and Stracey Road, with activity at Strode Road and Latimer Road commencing later on 28 September. Throughout construction, roads and pavements beneath each bridge will be closed, with additional short-term closures across the surrounding area planned during 2027.
The initial phase will involve strengthening and extending the support structures at each end of the existing bridges. This work will prepare the sites to carry new bridge decks.
The most intensive stage—demolition of the existing bridge decks and installation of new spans—is scheduled for spring 2027. The project is expected to be completed by late summer 2027.
Impact on rail services
Passengers using the London Overground Suffragette line should expect some weekend disruptions in 2027, when key installation works are planned. Network Rail has indicated that further details on closures will be communicated closer to the time, as efforts are made to minimise passenger impact.
Delivery and stakeholder management
The bridge replacement programme is being delivered by contractor BAM, on behalf of Network Rail Anglia. The scheme sits within a wider push to modernise legacy infrastructure across the capital’s rail network, particularly in densely populated urban corridors.
Joe Kennedy, infrastructure director for Network Rail Anglia, said:
“Our project will deliver four brand new bridges that will serve the surrounding community and rail passengers for several generations. We’re really sorry for the disruption and we’ll work very closely with residents and businesses to keep the impact to a minimum while we get the job done.”
With thousands of daily journeys relying on this section of route, the project represents a significant investment in network reliability, passenger safety and community connectivity in east London.
Image credits: Network Rail
