Media centre

Tuesday 10 Feb 2026

Strong progress on Kirk Hill bridge upgrade as demolition footage released

Region & Route:

Eastern

| Eastern: East Midlands

Time-lapse demolition footage has been released as strong progress continues on a bridge reconstruction benefiting passengers and freight.

The ongoing upgrade of Kirk Hill bridge will help future-proof the railway in Sutton Bonington.

The new bridge will be a step towards the removal of a speed limit imposed because tamping machines cannot currently access the area to keep the line smooth and straight.

It will also provide extra space, allowing larger gauge freight trains to use this section of the railway – helping to reduce road congestion by taking lorries off the road.

And it will mean there is clearance beneath the bridge for electric or bi-mode trains, should the Midland Main Line electrification project be reinstated.

Demolition work was completed in late December, when passenger trains were not running.

There will also be minimal disruption to services when the new bridge is constructed over four weeks from mid-February. Work will be carried out entirely during overnight weekend shifts.

From mid-March to the project’s target completion date in September, we will be carrying out parapet installation, bridge deck and abutment work, meeting highway and utility requirements, and taking down the temporary work compound to reinstate the site.

Katie Oliver, Network Rail lead portfolio manager, said: 

“Completing the demolition safely and on schedule is a major step forward in the Kirk Hill bridge project. We’re now focused on completing the scheme to deliver improvements that will benefit passengers and freight for decades to come. Thank you to everyone who worked tirelessly over Christmas and to the local community for their patience and understanding.”