Network Rail has begun building a temporary bridge at Kibworth in Leicestershire for pedestrians to use while it adapts the current footbridge to facilitate the electrification of the railway between Kettering and Wigston.

The temporary footbridge will be in place by this autumn, when engineers will demolish the existing School Road bridge and will then rebuild it to dimensions that provide the clearance needed for overhead wires to pass beneath it. This will allow residents to access shops and local schools safely whilst work on the permanent bridge takes place.

The overhead wires will provide traction current to power electric and bi-mode trains through the East Midlands. This work forms part of the multi-million-pound Midland Main Line upgrade, which will reduce carbon output and make journeys more reliable.

Network Rail has engaged with the local community, working closely with Kibworth Parish Council, Harborough District Council and Leicestershire County Council, to ensure that it carries out the work with minimum impact on the community. Unfortunately, however, the temporary bridge will close at times during the work, in order to protect the safety of workers and members of the public. Network Rail will notify local residents of exact dates and times of closures closer to the time.

Engineers will finish replacing the permanent bridge by spring 2024.

Gavin Crook, Principal Programme Sponsor for Network Rail’s East Midlands Route, said: “I’m pleased that work is pushing forward to build a temporary bridge whilst the existing bridge at School Road is reconstructed, clearing space for overhead line equipment to be installed underneath.

“We have listened carefully to Kibworth villagers, as well as the parish council, and have worked to agree a diversion route that best suits the needs of the community. The temporary bridge will make sure that those with pushchairs, wheelchairs and scooters can safely access local schools and nurseries in the village.

“I’d like to thank the community for their feedback and support, and I look forward to the new bridge opening next year.”