A huge 92-tonne bridge has been lifted into place in a three-hour operation as work on improvements to Eaglescliffe railway station continues.
The steel structure was installed with the help of 15 staff from contractor BAM over the weekend (22/23 March).
The 56-metre-long bridge will feature three lifts when complete to connect the existing car park – and a newly created car park – to Eaglescliffe’s island platform.
The £14.5m rail project has seen £9.2m funded from the Combined Authority, £3.25m from Network Rail and £2m from the Department for Transport to solve Eaglescliffe’s long-standing access issues and transform the station for passengers.
Anna Weeks, principal programme sponsor for Network Rail's North and East route, said: “This achievement marks an important milestone in improving accessibility at Eaglescliffe station. The bridge installation demonstrates our commitment to working collaboratively with partners to deliver better passenger facilities.
“We’re proud to invest significantly in this vital project that will transform the travel experience, creating a more inclusive railway network for everyone in the Tees Valley region.”
Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen said: “This lift marks a big milestone on getting this project completed and ready. Eaglescliffe offers a crucial link to major stations south of us and its access has been below par for far too long.
“It’s great to see steel going in the ground and the project now taking shape – and it’s also pleasing to have our friends at Stockton Council getting on with their side of the job and getting the new car park sorted.
“Ultimately, this project and the work going on around the station will make things better and simpler for people working at fantastic firms on Durham Lane Industrial Estate – and for everyone who wants to use Eaglescliffe for travel.
“We’ve pumped the money in to get this done to ensure people across Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool have the railway they deserve.”
Image and video credit: Network Rail
