OREANDA-NEWS. Network Rail carried out preparatory work on the bridge at the end of last year that involved identifying a number of utility cables that were buried deep beneath the structure. Work is currently taking place to divert these utility services, while keeping the road open for motorists.

Now, the ‘orange army’ is nearing the stage in the project when the essential work to reconstruct the bridge needs to take place. This work involves raising the height of the bridge to create the additional space needed for the overhead lines that will power a new fleet of longer, faster, quieter and greener electric trains to run underneath.

To carry out the reconstruction, a road closure will be put in place from Monday, 9 November until the beginning of March next year. Throughout the majority of this time, pedestrians and cyclists will still be able to access the bridge.

A drop-in event to explain more about the work and provide residents with an opportunity to ask questions, will be held on Thursday, 17 September between 4pm and 7pm at Grange Leisure Centre in Stratton St Margaret, Swindon.

Andrew Haynes, Network Rail’s project director for the west of England, said: “We know the closure of this bridge last year inconvenienced residents, which is why we reassessed our work programme to ensure that as much of the work as possible is carried out whilst maintaining access.

“We are now nearing the point in the project where the actual reconstruction needs to take place and so we are continuing to work closely with Swindon Borough Council to minimise disruption and complete the work in as short a timescale as possible.

“This essential work will pave the way for electrification and the benefits this will bring for local residents. These benefits include faster trains with more seats and more legroom, and less noise and pollution for those who live close to the railway line.”

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 – Gipsy Lane – Bridge End Road.