Road closures near Kirk Hill bridge were lifted as planned on Friday 17 July as Network Rail’s reconstruction project remains on target and nears completion.
Because diversion routes must be the same type of road as the road being closed, several nearby roads were also closed to prevent them being used as shortcuts, allowing the Kirk Hill bridge project to be carried out safely.
All traffic restrictions were removed on Friday as planned, with Network Rail having completed the bulk of the bridge reconstruction work, which will bring benefits including:
- providing clearance for larger‑gauge freight trains – allowing more goods to move by rail instead of road, helping reduce congestion and supporting a more sustainable transport network.
- improving rail maintenance access to support progress towards removing a long‑standing speed restriction and improving reliability
- offering sufficient clearance under the new bridge for electric or bi‑mode trains, should Midland Main Line electrification be restarted in the future.
The bridge reconstruction was originally planned as part of the Midland Main Line electrification programme. Although electrification was paused, the Department for Transport approved the project to continue because of the long-term benefits it delivers for freight and the railway, while ensuring the route is ready should electrification proceed in future.
The demolition of the old bridge took place over Christmas 2025, meaning no passenger service disruption because trains do not run in this area on Christmas Day or Boxing Day. Other critical work has been carried out overnight and at weekends, allowing engineers to deliver the project while keeping the railway open.
The project has seen Network Rail teams and lead contractor AmcoGiffen install a temporary utility bridge to safely carry gas, electricity, water and broadband services throughout the work; install new bridge components; construct new parapet walls with 14,000 bricks and high-strength concrete to meet modern safety standards; install utility services into the new bridge deck; and complete highway and drainage works.
Still to be carried out ahead of the planned completion in September are the demobilisation of the work compound and reinstating the site.
Nick Wilton, Network Rail senior sponsor, said:
“The project at Kirk Hill bridge was planned to minimise disruption for passengers as much as possible while we delivered this important structural upgrade. However we recognise that there has been some unavoidable disruption for residents and businesses because of the road closures, and we’re sorry for the inconvenience caused.
“We’ve worked with the council to mitigate this as much as we could, and we’ve remained in close contact with the community. Feedback from our regular meetings with the community was taken on board from the beginning.
“We’re pleased to have reached another important milestone with the removal of road restrictions and we thank everyone for their patience as we complete the last of our tasks – taking down our compound and reinstating the site.”
Image credit: Network Rail
