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Tuesday 26 Jul 2005

£2 MILLION IMPROVEMENTS TO RAILWAY BRIDGE IN TIPTON

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Work begins on 1 August to 14 April 2006, on a £2 million scheme to strengthen Tipton Road overbridge, to bring it in line with the latest European standards for vehicle weight. The project funded jointly by Network Rail and Dudley Council will demolish the existing metallic bridge deck and replace it with reinforced concrete. This will take place in two halves to maintain a lane of southbound traffic for the duration of the work. Currently it is reduced to single lanes of traffic due to the weight restrictions on the bridge, but will reopen as dual carriageway when the work is completed. Peter Strachan, Network Rail Route Director, said: “Network Rail is committed to investing in its assets to ensure the safety and reliability of the country’s railway. This major investment will ensure the bridge at Tipton Road meets the latest safety standards, securing its future reliability for the local community.” A temporary prop will be in place at the centre of the bridge in order for the work to be completed in two halves. Additional strengthening to the abutments and installation of approach safety fencing will also take place as a part of the project. Lane closures start 8 August to 10 April 2006 and local diversions will be in place.