OREANDA-NEWS. The bridge over the railway at Stratton Green on Swindon Road is to be reconstructed as part of Network Rail's Great Western Electrification Programme.

The reconstruction is essential to enable a new fleet of longer, faster and greener electric trains to serve commuters in Wiltshire travelling on the route from Cardiff to London. The rebuilt bridge will be higher, creating the additional space needed for the overhead lines which will power the trains to run underneath.

To complete the work, which starts on 10 November, a road closure will be put in place on 17 November for approximately 20 weeks. Throughout this time pedestrians and cyclists will still be able to access the bridge.

Andrew Haynes, project director for Network Rail, said: “Significant work is required on this bridge in order to prepare it for electrification and the benefits this will bring.

“We understand that this temporary closure could inconvenience those who live and work in the area, and we are working closely with Swindon Borough Council to minimise disruption and complete the work in as short a timeframe as possible.

“We will be holding a public event in September to explain more about the work we are undertaking and to provide an opportunity for people to ask questions. More details about this event will be available shortly."

The diversion route agreed with Swindon Borough Council during the temporary closure is as follows: Drakes Way - Ocotal Way - Great Western Road roundabout - Cirencester Way - Gypsy Lane - Bridge End Road.