Work Halted On Rail Bridge Upgrade
Written by HFM News on 14th February 2024
A four-month road closure is likely to be extended after work to replace a rail bridge near Newton Harcourt was halted.
Newton Lane has been shut since last October and was due to re-open on March 1st.
Network Rail says the ‘temporary pause’ is needed so final details of the highway design can be discussed with Leicestershire Council Council.
The prospect of the road remaining closed for longer is concerning businesses based in Wistow, including the Rural Centre, who say less customers are visiting.
Access to the area has been further restricted since near-by Station Road was shut in December, after a van driver struck a bridge causing serious damage – repairs are continuing.
Cllr Kevin Feltham, who represents the area, says traders need clarity on timescales of the Newton Lane closure as soon as possible:
Both Network Rail and the council are yet to confirm if the road closure will have to be extended.
The work is taking place as part of the electrification of the tracks and a Network Rail spokesperson said: “Work has been progressing well at Wigston Road bridge but has been temporarily paused while we discuss final details to the design with Leicestershire County Council.
“The bridge is being reconstructed to accommodate overhead lines to pass underneath as part of the wider Midland Main Line Upgrade, which will allow for the introduction of new bi-mode trains and bring smoother, more reliable, and greener journeys for passengers.
“We will continue to work with the council and hope to recommence work soon. We want to thank residents for their continued patience and understanding while this essential work is taking place.”
Councillor Ozzy O’Shea, county council cabinet member for highways and transport, said: “We’re working closely with Network Rail to provide an improvement to the existing highway and together we want to ensure that any delays are kept to a minimum while understanding the concerns of local businesses.
“We welcome electrification of the Midland Main Line and the benefits it will bring.”
There was a similar ‘pause’ in work last year on a new rail bridge on Station Road near Great Glen, after the council raised concerns about new highway infrastructure.
