Network Rail engineers have today (Monday, 4 November) resumed work to rebuild Irthlingborough Road bridge in Wellingborough.

The bridge was demolished in late 2018 to allow for the safe clearance of overhead line equipment as the railway between Bedford to Kettering/Corby is electrified.

Following a review of the programme, feedback from residents and discussions with Northamptonshire County Council and Wellingborough Council, Network Rail has decided that the structure will be rebuilt in the same position, but at an increased height. 

The bridge will be completed by Summer 2020, which is when the bridge will reopen to vehicles and pedestrians.

Network Rail is holding a public information event on Wednesday, 13 November between 16:00 and 18:00 at Unit 10 in the Leyland Trading Estate. There will be a presentation with more detail about the phases of construction from 16:30 and Network Rail workers will be on hand to answer any questions businesses and residents may have.

Gavin Crook, Principal Programme Sponsor for Network Rail, said:

“Good progress has been made on this project since our last public meeting in August. We have appointed a contractor, ordered the replacement bridge deck and have developed a robust plan to rebuild the bridge. 

“We continue to work closely with Northampton County Council and the Borough Council in Wellingborough and would like to reassure all those impacted by the closure that we are working to complete the project as quickly as possible.

“We would like to thank all those affected for their patience.”