Media centre

Monday 15 Jun 2020

Network Rail announces reopening date of railway bridge in Barnsley for motorists after vital upgrade work

Region & Route:

Eastern

| Eastern: North & East

Network Rail has announced that Hough Lane road bridge in Wombwell will reopen for motorists on Thursday, 18 June, following vital work to upgrade it.

The road was closed to motorists in January to allow Network Rail engineers to safely demolish the old bridge, which was built in 1895, and replace it with a stronger, wider one, with more spacious pavements and a cycle path, making the bridge easier to use. The upgraded bridge also allows trains to pass through Wombwell station at faster speeds, resulting in more reliable journeys for passengers.

Network Rail has worked closely with Northern and Barnsley Council throughout the project to minimise the disruption for passengers and residents of Wombwell. A signposted diversionary route has been in place for motorists, and pedestrian access was successfully maintained via a temporary footbridge for the majority of the work.

There will be temporary traffic lights in place later this month to allow the car park wall to be rebuilt safely. Scaffolding will remain on one side of the bridge whilst the final stage of work takes place to move cables in July. Motorists, cyclists and pedestrians will not be affected by this part of the project.

Passengers are reminded that from today (Monday, 15 June), it is mandatory for all station users in England – passengers and staff – to wear a face covering to protect themselves and others. However, some passengers are exempt, including young children, disabled people, and those with breathing difficulties.

Matt Rice, Route Director for Network Rail’s North and East Route, said: “We’d like to thank residents of Wombwell for their patience and support whilst we carried out this essential project to upgrade Hough Lane road bridge.

“The new and improved bridge will benefit people in the area for future generations, and we were pleased to receive positive feedback about the project from the community. The upgrade will also allow trains to travel at faster speeds on the line, which will result in more reliable journeys.”