£670,000 FOR SHREWSBURY BRIDGE UPGRADE

Monday 5 Mar 2007

£670,000 FOR SHREWSBURY BRIDGE UPGRADE

Region & Route:: | Wales & Western: Wales & Borders; | Southern: Wessex; | Wales & Western; | Southern

Network Rail is investing £670,000 to strengthen the Redhill road-over-rail bridge on the outskirts of Shrewsbury to bring it up to European standards. The strengthening work is being carried out at Longden Road which is on the Cambrian Line between Shrewsbury to Aberystwyth. The project will allow the bridge to carry the large commercial road vehicles now permitted on Britain's roads under recent EU legislation. Mark Langman, Area General Manager said: "This project is part of a massive upgrading programme which is being conducted on hundreds of bridges across the UK. The work will ensure that this important route can remain open for many years to come. We have worked closely with Shropshire County Council to ensure any disruption for motorists and residents is kept to a minimum." Longden Road will be closed from Wednesday the 7th March to Wednesday the 28th of March when the project will be completed. Diversionary routes will be provided for motorists. The railway between Shrewsbury and Welshpool will be closed on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 March respectively as engineers replace the bridge deck. Arriva Trains Wales will be providing replacement road transport between Shrewsbury and Welshpool where passengers can connect to train services along the Cambrian Line. Passengers are advised to check journey details with National Rail Enquiries on 08457 484950 before travelling.

Notes to editors

Redhill bridge is currently restricted to one lane of traffic with traffic lights in place. The upgrade will allow the traffic lights to be removed and reopen the bridge to two way traffic We have worked closely with Shropshire County Council to minimise any disruption. Letters have been sent to local residents and businesses and the Council will ensure that any diversionary routes are well signposted The project is 95% funded by Network Rail with 5% funding from Shropshire County Council

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