Media centre

Monday 2 Nov 2015

Swindon residents reminded of Stratton Green bridge closure for railway electrification work

Region & Route:

| Wales & Western: Western

| Wales & Western

Network Rail’s ‘orange army’ is reminding residents that the essential work to prepare Stratton Green bridge in Swindon for the arrival of a new fleet of electric trains will begin next week.

The team will be demolishing and rebuilding the bridge as part of the company’s Railway Upgrade Plan, creating the additional space needed for the overhead lines that will power the faster, longer, greener and quieter electric trains to run underneath.

To carry out the reconstruction, a temporary road closure will be put in place from Monday, 9 November until the end of February 2016. Throughout the majority of this time, pedestrians and cyclists will still be able to access the bridge.

Andrew Haynes, Network Rail’s project director for the west of England, said:

“The new bridge will pave the way for electrification and the benefits this will bring for local residents. These include faster trains with more seats and more legroom, and less noise and pollution for those who live close to the railway. The ability to reduce journey times while increasing capacity will also benefit businesses, helping to drive economic growth across the west and south west of England.

“We know the closure of this bridge will inconvenience residents and commuters, but we are asking people to please bear with us while this essential work is carried out.

 “We are continuing to work closely with Swindon Borough Council to minimise disruption and complete the work in as short a timescale as possible.”

The diversion route agreed with Swindon Borough Council during the temporary closure of Stratton Green bridge is as follows: Drakes Way – Ocotal Way – Great Western Road roundabout – Cirencester Way – Gipsy Lane – Bridge End Road.

Members of the public with any questions about the work can call Network Rail’s 24-hour National Helpline on 03457 11 41 41.

ENDS

Notes to editors

About the Great Western Electrification Programme:

Electrification will transform the railway between London and Oxford, Newbury, Bristol and Cardiff to deliver a faster, greener, quieter and more reliable railway for passengers, with extra capacity. Electrifying this part of the Great Western route will enhance 235 miles of one of Britain’s busiest and oldest railways, better connecting major towns and cities across southern England and South Wales. This investment, as well as the introduction of a fleet of new trains, will improve journey times and make services more comfortable, smoother, cleaner and quieter for passengers and people living near the railway.

For more information about the Great Western Electrification Programme, visit: http://www.networkrail.co.uk/great-western-route-modernisation/