Media centre

Wednesday 2 Sep 2015

Bonnington Walk bridge in Lockleaze to be prepared for electric trains

Region & Route:

| Wales & Western: Western

| Wales & Western

Network Rail will be carrying out essential work to the bridge over the railway on Bonnington Walk in Lockleaze to prepare it for electrification and the arrival of a new fleet of longer, faster, quieter and greener electric trains.

The work which starts tomorrow, 3 September, involves raising the height of the walls on either side of the bridge to ensure the safety of the bridge’s users once the overhead line electrification equipment is installed. This equipment will be used to power the new electric trains to run underneath.

To complete the work, a temporary, partial road closure will be in place for approximately ten weeks. The partial road closure will mean that one side of the bridge will remain open for motorists and pedestrians to use at all times, with traffic flow controlled by temporary traffic lights.

Andrew Haynes, Network Rail’s project director for the west of England, said: “We understand that our work could inconvenience those who live and work in the area, but it is essential in order to ensure the safety of the bridge’s users once electrification and the new fleet of electric trains arrive.

“These trains have many benefits for both passengers and those who live close to the railway line, including more seats, more legroom and faster journey, as well as significantly less noise and pollution.”

ENDS

Notes to editors

About the Great Western Electrification Programme

Electrification will transform the railway between London and Oxford, Newbury, Bristol and Cardiff to deliver a faster, greener, quieter and more reliable railway for passengers, with extra capacity. Electrifying this part of the Great Western route will enhance 235 miles of one of Britain’s busiest and oldest railways, better connecting major towns and cities across southern England and South Wales. This investment, as well as the introduction of a fleet of new trains, will improve journey times and make services more comfortable, smoother, cleaner and quieter for passengers and people living near the railway.

For more information about the Great Western Electrification Programme, visit: http://www.networkrail.co.uk/great-western-route-modernisation/

For the latest updates on the Great Western Electrification Programme, follow our Twitter account @networkrailgwrm.