Passengers have been thanked after Network Rail successfully completed the emergency removal of Oxhey Grange footbridge near Watford, reopening the West Coast Main Line earlier than planned on Sunday afternoon.
Engineers worked through the night and into Sunday morning to safely dismantle and remove the deteriorated structure, which crossed one of Britain’s busiest railways. The operation was completed using a specialist heavy-lift crane, allowing the railway to reopen to passengers ahead of the planned 4pm hand back.
Video footage and images released today show the scale and complexity of the operation, which was carried out to protect the safety of passengers, railway workers and the local community following the discovery of significant structural deterioration in the bridge. The bridge was lifted out in a single operation using a specialist 1200 tonne heavy-lift crane capable of lifting 100 tonnes. This approach significantly reduced the amount of time the railway needs to be closed compared with alternative removal methods.
Gary Walsh, director for Network Rail’s West Coast South route, said: “This was a complex operation on one of the UK’s busiest railways and I’m delighted that our teams were able to complete the work safely and reopen the line earlier than planned.
“I’d like to thank passengers and the local community for their patience and understanding while we carried out this essential emergency work. The bridge had deteriorated more quickly than expected and removing it was the safest option to protect everyone who uses and works on the railway.
“This earlier reopening means services were able to resume sooner, reducing disruption for passengers travelling on the West Coast Main Line. My thanks also go to our engineers, contractors and train operator colleagues who worked tirelessly to deliver this challenging project safely and efficiently.
Network Rail will continue to engage with local stakeholders as plans for a future replacement crossing are developed.
Image credit: Network Rail
