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Thursday 6 Aug 2026

Marston Lane to remain closed until November following major bridge strike near Nuneaton

Region & Route:

North West & Central

| North West & Central: West Coast Mainline South

Network Rail is thanking residents and businesses for their patience as work continues to repair a railway bridge near Nuneaton following a serious bridge strike on 11 June. 

The bridge, which carries the West Coast Main Line over Marston Lane, suffered significant damage when it was struck by a heavy goods vehicle in June. 

Engineers acted quickly to stabilise the structure and safely reopen the railway to passengers and freight services. However, Marston Lane must remain closed while permanent repairs are designed and carried out. 

The road closure is expected to remain in place until November, helping to protect local communities, road users, railway passengers and the workforce delivering the repairs. 

Since the incident, engineers have been carrying out detailed assessments of the damage and developing a permanent repair solution. The work involves completing detailed designs, procuring specialist steel and concrete materials, securing access to the railway and planning complex engineering activity while trains continue to run safely on the route. 

Martin Ball, infrastructure director for Network Rail's West Coast South route, said: "We understand the closure of Marston Lane continues to be frustrating for residents, businesses and motorists, and we'd like to thank everyone for their patience while we carry out these essential repairs. 

"Although trains are running safely, the bridge suffered significant damage and remains vulnerable to further strikes until the permanent repairs are completed. Keeping the road closed is the safest option while we carry out the detailed engineering work needed to restore the structure. We are working as quickly as possible and currently expect the road to remain closed until November." 

Network Rail will continue to keep residents, businesses and stakeholders updated as the project progresses. 

Vehicle bridge strikes like these have the potential to be very dangerous and disruptive but they can be avoided.

Drivers should know the height and size of their vehicles - including any loads they are carrying - and carefully plan their routes so that infrastructure isn’t put at risk in this way. To find out more please visit: www.networkrail.co.uk/who-we-are/safety-in-the-community/railway-safety-campaigns/wise-up-size-up/