OREANDA-NEWS. The bridge, which is being installed by Network Rail as part of its Railway Upgrade Plan, will be installed over Aldershot high street in June. Preparatory work will take place over the weekend of 21 and 22 May. Over both weekends the town’s high street will be closed to vehicles but will remain open to pedestrians.

Mark Evans, Asset Engineer at Network Rail said, “I’m really proud to work for a company that engages so well with the local community by looking for ways to go above and beyond what’s normally expected. We hope to provide a new bridge that resonates within the local community and helps highlight a proud Aldershot history.

While work to renew the 120-year-old bridge continues, Network Rail is keen to remind shoppers that the high street remains open for business.

Mark said, “During these works, it is essential to close the high street to vehicles to allow the safe operation of a large crane which will lift the new bridge into position. We’re keen to stress that while the road is closed to traffic, it’s very much open to pedestrians and open for business.

“The current bridge is over 120 years old so it is essential that we replace it, and we’re working hard to minimise the disruption to passengers, businesses and the local community. We really appreciate their understanding while we carry out these vital works.”

Some train services will be affected and so passengers should check before they travel while the work is going on. Passengers can visit nationalrail.co.uk or southwesttrains.co.uk to check how their journeys will be affected.