Network Rail are in the preparation stage of a bridge replacement due to take place over the next four months.

Now over the age of 100, the Bridge which on carries the old Midland Railway Mainline over the A6003 near Manton, Rutland is due for replacement.

Both East Midlands Railway and CrossCountry use the line, providing key transport links to Leicester, Peterborough, Kettering and London.

Freight trains also use the line regularly, whether from the local Hanson Quarry at Ketton, Rutland or passing trains with shipping containers.

The site is now being cleared and temporary buildings set up ready for staff. Once demolished, the stronger new bridge will be fitted from underneath.

The biggest impact in this £2.8 million project is the full closure of the A6003 road starting Monday 12th of April to Monday 5th July 2021. This will affect cars and other vehicles, which will have to follow diversions, with planning routes ahead highly recommended.

The nearby footpath will remain open for both pedestrians and cyclists. Network Rail in partnership with Rutland County Council to reduce the impact of this work where possible.

Rail passengers will have minimal impact from the work, with only a short spell where train services have to stop. The line will be closed starting after the last train on Thursday 3rd of June and will reopen on for the first train on Monday 7th of June. Passengers are advised to plan ahead and take into account journeys maybe longer.

Once completed the new bridge will ensure safety on the route for many decades to come.

Route Director for Network Rail’s East Midlands Route Gary Walsh said: “This project to reconstruct the railway bridge in Manton is vital to keep the railway running reliably and to make sure local people can pass safely under it.

“We need to close the road at the bridge so the improvements can be carried out safely and we apologise to drivers, residents and businesses in Manton for the disruption this will cause. We will reopen the road as soon as it is safe to do so.”

Where Next?

RAILADVENT NEWS
The latest railway news
FREE NEWSLETTERS
Signup to our daily and weekly newsletters
RAILADVENT SHOP
Prints, DVD’s, Clocks, Mouse Mats and more!
LOCOSTOP COMMUNITY
Come and share your railway pictures
UK STEAM INFO
Upcoming mainline steam tours/loco movements
NETWORK RAIL
Visit their website