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Thursday 8 Oct 2026

Investment to boost reliability at Goole Swing Bridge

Region & Route:

Eastern

| Eastern: North & East

Network Rail is investing £200,000 to renew key equipment at Goole Swing Bridge and keep trains running safely and reliably over the River Ouse.

Passengers are advised that the project will mean buses replace trains between Doncaster and Hull on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 October.

Network Rail teams will replace power cables and renew 16 control units that play a crucial role in ensuring the bridge is correctly positioned for trains to pass safely. The upgrade will improve the reliability of the infrastructure and reduce the risk of equipment failures that could affect journeys.

Grade II*-listed Goole Swing Bridge is one of the largest and oldest surviving railway swing bridges in the UK. It opened more than 150 years ago and continues to carry passenger and freight services while allowing river traffic to pass through the busy waterway.

Much of the bridge's machinery dates back to the Victorian era, making it one of Network Rail's most distinctive and historically significant pieces of infrastructure.

The investment forms part of Network Rail's ongoing programme of maintenance and renewal work to keep the railway running safely and reliably for passengers and freight operators.

The bridge also benefited from a major refurbishment programme in summer 2023, modernising its operating systems and upgrading hydraulic turning and jacking systems, control systems, electricity supply and navigation lights.

Mark Hayles, Network Rail head of route operations, said:

“This £200,000 investment at Goole Swing Bridge will replace ageing equipment with modern, more reliable components, helping us maintain a safe and dependable railway for passengers and freight customers.

“By renewing power cables and key control units, we're reducing the risk of faults and helping to keep trains moving reliably through this important location.

“We’re sorry to anyone whose journey will be affected while we carry out this work, thank passengers for their patience while these essential upgrades are completed.“

Passengers are advised to plan ahead and check details of all parts of their journeys with National Rail or their train operator before travelling.