Media centre

Monday 22 Aug 2016

Barrow upon Soar bridge reopens to pedestrians

Region & Route:

| Eastern

A bridge over the Midland Lane Line in Leicestershire which partially collapsed earlier this month has reopened to pedestrians.

Work has been taking place round the clock at Grove Lane, which crosses four tracks in Barrow upon Soar, since August 1 when the incident happened to secure the bridge and create a safe walking route.

That phase of work is now complete and the footpath, which is protected by a 2.4metre high fence, opened this morning (Monday 22 August).

Gary Walsh, area director for Network Rail, said: “This was a significant incident and a lot of work has gone into securing the bridge and getting it ready to be used. I’m pleased that pedestrians can now access the bridge again and thank those living nearby for bearing with us while the work has taken place.

“We have been in regular contact with those living near the bridge and will continue to let them know about the future plans.”

Plans for the long term repairs to the bridge that would reopen the road to vehicles are currently being designed, with further information to follow as soon as plans are finalised. Trains running beneath the bridge are now back to normal speed.

Members of the public with an enquiry about the bridge repairs should contact Network Rail’s national helpline on 03457 11 41 41.