Railway bridge to be replaced at Crofton, West Yorkshire

Work to reconstruct the railway bridge at Doncaster Road in Crofton, West Yorkshire, will begin on Monday 19 October. The bridge, which carries the Knottingley to Leeds line and was built in 1880, has been struck by high sided vehicles over the years, which has caused structural damage.

Network Rail engineers will demolish the bridge, then build a stronger one at a slightly raised height, which will help to reduce the number of bridge strikes. Collision protection beams will also be installed, which will help to prevent damage.

This work, which will cost an estimated £3.7 million, will have no impact on passenger train services, although Doncaster Road will have some traffic restrictions, and the main part of the project will take place over the Christmas period. The upgrade is expected to complete in February 2021.

Matt Rice, Route Director for Network Rail’s North and East route, said: “This work to upgrade the bridge at Doncaster Road is vital for the railway and for the community in Crofton. It will mean train services can continue running safely and reliably for generations to come.

“We’ve carefully planned the work to make sure that Doncaster Road remains open whenever possible, especially at busier times. Key parts of this project can only be carried out safely when the road is closed, and we apologise to drivers, residents and businesses in Crofton for any inconvenience.”

Network Rail is strongly advising drivers to know the height of their vehicle, as bridge strikes are entirely avoidable. They can cause damage to the railway and delays to train services, and cost taxpayers millions of pounds every year.