Network Rail has started work to replace the historic Manton railway bridge in Rutland, as part of a major reconstruction project.
The project to fully reconstruct the bridge, which is over 150 years old, began in April and is now entering the main stage of work, with a newer, stronger bridge being installed between June 3-7, 2021.
As the works will see the old bridge removed and the new one installed, train services are to be halted on a section of the line between Melton Mowbray and Stamford/Kettering over the weekend period.
Engineering teams will replace the old bridge with the newer model through a carefully planned installation process. Teams have already set up compounds, carried out preparatory works and installed a temporary scaffold bridge for any wires to run across so that they can be installed on the new structure.
Access ramps for engineers to reach the tracks have also been put in place to make removal of the old bridge easier.
The new bridge will be installed from underneath. Once the new bridge is in place, engineers will them move and reinstall the cables onto the new structure, remove the temporary ramps and take down the scaffolding, allowing the road beneath to be reopened on July 5, 2021, with the project fully completed later that month.
Gary Walsh, Route Director for Network Rail’s East Midlands route, said: “We know this section of the A6003 is a vital connection for drivers in Rutland and the surrounding areas and we want to thank them for their patience while this vital upgrade is carried out.
“Although the first stages of the work haven’t been visible for the local community, a lot of preparation is involved before lifting the bridge and installing the new one – and the project can only be carried out safely when the road is closed.
“Reconstructing Manton bridge will mean people can safely and reliably connect to other towns and cities via rail or road for generations to come.”
