WELLINGTON RAILWAY BRIDGE TO BE STRENGTHENED

Wednesday 18 Aug 2004

WELLINGTON RAILWAY BRIDGE TO BE STRENGTHENED

Region & Route:: | Wales & Western: Wales & Borders; | Wales & Western: Western; | Wales & Western

A £400,000 project to strengthen Church Street railway bridge in Wellington, Shropshire enabling it to meet new EU standards to carry 40 tonne vehicles, is to be undertaken by Network Rail. Andy Milne, Project Manager for Network Rail’s London North Western territory, explained: “This essential engineering work is yet another local example of Network Rail’s commitment to rebuilding Britain’s railway. “It highlights our partnership working with local authorities around the country to meet new EU standards for strengthening bridges.” A four-week closure of the road at Church Street will be necessary but pedestrian access will be maintained by a temporary footbridge. The road closure will take effect from 7am on Tuesday 31 August and is scheduled to re-open on Sunday 26 September. A signed diversion route has been agreed with the Borough of Telford and Wrekin, which is funding the project. A full railway closure will take place between Shrewsbury and Wolverhampton over the weekend of 11/12 September 2004. Passengers are advised to check with National Rail Enquiries on 08457 48 49 50 for details of alternative services. - more - Wellington – 2 A brand new technique will be used during the strengthening of the existing cast iron beam bridge, which involves gluing carbon fibre plates to the beams. This is only the third time this method has been used by Network Rail’s London North Western structures team and will take place during a 54-hour weekend possession of the railway.

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