Media centre

Tuesday 25 Nov 2014

Network Rail to begin £8m project to replace ageing bridge in Cardiff

Region & Route:

| Wales & Western: Wales & Borders

| Wales & Western

A railway bridge in Cardiff is to be rebuilt as part of Network Rail’s work to provide a modern, bigger and better railway for South Wales.

Windsor Road bridge, which carries the road that connects Adamsdown with Splott and spans the South Wales Main Line, will be replaced with a larger and improved structure.

The bridge, which was built in 1902, has to be replaced as it has reached the end of its life.

When the essential work is completed, the new structure will be able to accommodate heavier road loads and will be slightly higher than it is currently, to provide the extra headroom needed for the future electrification of the railway.

Graeme Tandy, route delivery director for Network Rail Wales, said: “Windsor Road bridge was built more than 100 years ago and is past its use-by date. This is a great opportunity for us to work with Cardiff City Council and put something better in its place.

“We have carefully planned the work to be completed in the safest and most efficient way and apologise for any inconvenience caused.

“We thank drivers and residents in the area for bearing with us as we do this vital work.”

Councillor Ramesh Patel, Cabinet Member for Transport, Planning & Sustainability, said: “Replacement of the Windsor Road Bridge is an essential improvement which will provide an updated structure to accommodate modern vehicles as well as permitting the eventual electrification of the main rail line. Cardiff’s continuing economic growth and development will enjoy further benefits from improved journey times and more frequent trains.”

In order for work to be carried out safely, the bridge will be closed to road vehicles and pedestrians from 12 January 2015 until the work is completed in spring 2016. Network Rail has worked closely with Cardiff City Council regarding a diversionary route, which will be clearly signed, and has done all it can to keep disruption to a minimum.

The demolition of the bridge will be a gradual process and, once complete, work will begin to completely rebuild the new structure. Network Rail will also work to ensure that vital services, such as electricity, gas and water that are buried in the structure, continue undisrupted while the old bridge is demolished and rebuilt.

For further information contact Network Rail on 08457 114 141.