Work Begins On Temporary Rail Bridge In Kibworth
Written by HFM News on 2nd August 2023
Work has begun to construct a temporary footbridge across the railway in Kibworth after a campaign by villagers.
It is being put in place near the existing well-used bridge off School Road, which is to be demolished and re-built to accommodate wires for the electrification of the tracks.
Network Rail agreed to the measure after outcry from villagers, who were initially told there would be no alternative provision when the main structure was shut for over six months.
The route is used by residents to get to and from Kibworth Harcourt and Kibworth Beauchamp, with many youngsters also using it to get to and from school.
Local councillors and Harborough MP Neil O’Brien called for the temporary bridge and over 100 villagers attended a public meeting with Network Rail over the issue.
Cllr Simon Whelband, district councillor for the Kibworths, told HFM he is delighted work is underway:
Work to build the temporary bridge is getting underway. Pic: Network Rail
The temporary bridge is set to be in place by the autumn, when the permanent bridge will then be closed for the upgrade work.
Gavin Crook, Principal Programme Sponsor for Network Rail’s East Midlands Route, said: “I’m pleased that work is pushing forward to build a temporary bridge whilst the existing bridge at School Road is reconstructed, clearing space for overhead line equipment to be installed underneath.
“We have listened carefully to Kibworth villagers, as well as the parish council, and have worked to agree a diversion route that best suits the needs of the community. The temporary bridge will make sure that those with pushchairs, wheelchairs and scooters can safely access local schools and nurseries in the village.
“I’d like to thank the community for their feedback and support, and I look forward to the new bridge opening next year.”
The temporary bridge will close during selected periods of work to demolish and reconstruct the permanent bridge, for the safety of engineers and members of the public and Network Rail say local residents will be notified of exact dates and times of any closures closer to the time.
The new, permanent bridge is due to be completed by spring next year.
