Network Rail is to upgrade the electrical and mechanical systems of three swing bridges in the Norfolk Broads that will improve reliability for passengers and reduce disruption for boat users.

The three swing bridges, at Reedham, Somerleyton, and Oulton Broad, are over 100 years old and their internal components haven’t been replaced in that time. As a result, they need frequent and costly maintenance.

Starting this autumn Network Rail engineers will upgrade the internal components for each bridge, which includes replacing the winch systems, hydraulic jacks and pipework, lighting,  and installing new power systems.

The three bridges are an important part of Network Rail’s railway heritage. Work to the internal elements of the bridges will be carried out whilst also maintaining the current look-and-feel and heritage of each bridge.

To allow engineers to complete the upgrade work, the Wherry line between Reedham and Lowestoft and the East Suffolk line between Lowestoft and Beccles will be closed on the following dates:

• Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 September;
• Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 October;
• Saturday 22 October to Sunday 6 November inclusive (16 days);
• Sunday 20 November.

During the closure, Greater Anglia will be running a rail-replacement bus service. Details will be available closer to the time of the work taking place on http://www.greateranglia.co.uk and http://www.nationalrailenquiries.co.uk.

Advice for boat users

Working in coordination with the Broads Authority, the work has been to take place after the busy summer tourist period to minimise disruption. While the work takes place there will be limited river access for vessels, but there will be short windows of opportunity to open the bridges. Dates will be communicated to boat users by The Broads Authority prior to works commencing.

Ellie Burrows, Network Rail’s route director for Anglia, said:

“These bridges are an important part of our railway heritage and also an important part of keeping both rail and boat traffic moving. Renewing the components will reduce the risk of mechanical problems and help keep services running safely, smoothly, and reliably for our passengers, as well as maintaining access to the ports and marinas.”

Jamie Burles, Greater Anglia managing director, said:

“This work will make our Norwich and Ipswich to Lowestoft lines even more reliable, which I know our customers will welcome. While the work is going on we will make sure customers can still complete their journeys with a rail replacement bus service.”

Rob Rogers, Broads Authority Director of Operations, commented:

“This much-needed investment by Network Rail into the Broads’ swing bridges is very much welcomed by the Broads Authority and our boating communities.

“It has been a challenging few years for our river users regarding the bridges and we are delighted to hear that work is progressing to allow them to reliably open for river traffic.

“We urge the boating community to note the periods of closure above and to check our website as the works progress for any navigation updates.”