OREANDA-NEWS. February 04, 2015. The reconstruction of the footbridge is an essential part of Network Rail’s electrification programme and will enable a new fleet of longer, faster, quieter and greener electric trains to serve commuters in Wiltshire travelling on the route from Cardiff to Paddington.

The reconstruction, which started in July 2014, involved raising the height of the footbridge to create the additional space needed for the overhead lines which will power the new electric trains to run underneath.

Andrew Haynes, Network Rail’s project director, said: “I would like to thank the local community for their patience and understanding while we carried out the work needed to prepare this footbridge for the electrification of the railway.

“We still have five bridges in Royal Wootton Bassett that require work and we are continuing to liaise closely with the Council to minimise any disruption while we carry out these essential upgrades. Now the bridge is open, people and businesses in the area are a step closer to seeing the benefits that electrification and the new electric trains will bring.”

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.