Media centre

Monday 8 Jun 2026

Strong progress as new Kirk Hill bridge nears completion

Region & Route:

Eastern

| Eastern: East Midlands

Work to deliver the new Kirk Hill bridge in Sutton Bonington continues to make strong progress – with 14,000 bricks being installed on the new structure.

The project will provide clearance for larger‑gauge freight trains – allowing more goods to move by rail – as well as improving rail maintenance access to support progress towards removing a long‑standing speed restriction and improving reliability. In addition, the new structure offers sufficient clearance for electric or bi‑mode trains, should Midland Main Line electrification be restarted in the future.

Our video from the site gives a further update on the project, which was started in September 2025. Since then, Network Rail teams and lead contractor AmcoGiffen have:

• installed a temporary utility bridge to safely carry gas, electricity, water and broadband services while the main structure was demolished and rebuilt
• demolished the original bridge during planned rail possessions over Christmas
• installed new bridge components during a series of three overnight weekend shifts
• constructed new parapet walls using 14,000 bricks and high-strength concrete to meet modern safety standards.

By carrying out critical works overnight, at weekends and over Christmas, engineers have been able to keep the railway open for passengers.

The work still to be carried out includes reinstalling utility services into the new bridge deck and carrying out highway and drainage works.

Road closures remain on track to be lifted as planned in late July, ahead of overall project completion in September.

Katie Oliver, Network Rail lead portfolio manager, said:

“We’ve made excellent progress on the Kirk Hill bridge upgrade, safely demolishing the old structure and rebuilding the new bridge while keeping disruption to passengers and the railway to a minimum.

“We’re sorry to local residents for the disruption, and we’re grateful for their continued patience as we head towards completing the project, with the upgraded Kirk Hill bridge delivering long-term benefits for both passengers and freight, while also preparing the route for potential future electrification.”