Network Rail undertakes essential repairs to one-of-a-kind Keadby Canal Bridge in North Lincolnshire in a bid to improve reliability 

A structural fault was found on the unique bridge earlier this month when the signaller could not close it, causing disruption for passengers on the well-used line between Doncaster and Scunthorpe. Network Rail are now working to make sure that the bridge can continue to be used reliably in to the future.

A full inspection of the bridge by engineers is currently underway along with the installation of a live monitoring system which will provide vital information on the problem and will allow them to create detailed designs for long-term repair work which will include the realigning of some equipment.

To create a safe working environment, teams will need to limit the use of the bridge and Network Rail and the Canal and River Trust have worked closely to plan the work and keep disruption to a minimum as much as possible whilst allowing train services to continue.

The bridge will stay closed for canal traffic and will open for short periods of time on alternating days with boat users recommended to arrive at the bridge at 12:00. The changes are expected to stay in place until the work is complete.

Train services will not be affected by the work and the level crossing will also remain open for use for people in the local community.

The unusual and complex bridge is also called a Vazon railway bridge and slides open to let boats on the Stainforth and Keadby canals to pass through, it then slides back into place so that train services can continue with their journeys. When open to water traffic, pedestrians can also use the level crossing to cross the railway safely.

Matt Rice, North and East Route Director for Network Rail, said: “Keadby Canal Bridge is a fascinating, one-of-a-kind piece of engineering – but that means when something goes wrong, it can take a little longer to fix.

“I must thank our partners at TransPennine Express, Northern and the Canal and River Trust for their support as we work quickly to resolve the problem, while at the same time keeping both trains and boats moving safely.”

Sean McGinley, Regional Director for Canal & River Trust, said: “We are working closely with Network Rail to keep disruptions to boaters to a minimum and allow them to continue their journey whilst the important safety works are carried out. The Vazon Railway Bridge is a unique feature on this canal and part of the rich heritage of the area. We are looking forward to seeing it in full working order once again.”

Kathryn O’Brien, Customer Experience Director for TransPennine Express, commented: “We are pleased to see this work is happening with such a key part of infrastructure in the Keadby Canal Bridge, so that our customers travelling on our South route can have a more reliable journey. While our services won’t be impacted by these works, we would still advise them to check before they travel.”

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