A frequently struck bridge is set to receive new technology aimed at significantly reducing train delays and associated costs when incidents occur.
The installation of remote monitoring equipment will allow engineers to assess the condition of structures in seconds rather than hours following a 'bridge strike,' thereby minimizing service disruptions.
Network Rail has secured £50,000 in funding for a trial that will utilize cameras and sensors on the East Coast Main Line at Grantham.
The Harlaxton Road bridge, where six roads converge, was among the top five most-struck bridges in the country last year, despite having prominent signs, chevrons, and protective beams.
This Victorian-era bridge has been hit by vehicles 11 times in the past nine months, including three incidents in one week in November, resulting in over £600,000 in damage and delays.
Currently, Network Rail engineers must visit the site to ensure the bridge is safe for train passage.
The new system, featuring cameras and sensors, will greatly expedite this process by providing real-time alerts and access to data and video footage.
Cameras will offer visual indications after a bridge strike, while sensors will measure the impact and assess the integrity of the structure and rail tracks.
Michael Clegg, Network Rail route engineer, said: “We work tirelessly to reduce the needless disruption caused by bridge strikes, which nationally cost the British rail industry about £20m a year in delays, cancellations and repairs.
“While we know we cannot prevent all future incidents, this technology will cut the inspection time after a bridge strike from hours to seconds in many cases.
“This means we can have trains running again much sooner after a bridge strike, providing a boost to the reliability of the railway and saving potentially hundreds of thousands of pounds.
“We will also continue our efforts in other areas of our campaign against bridge strikes, including making proactive visits to haulage companies to encourage lorry drivers to plan routes carefully and check vehicle heights.”
If the technology trial proves successful, the same system will be installed at other suitable bridges in Grantham and further afield.
Image credit: Network Rail