Work to replace the life-expired Common Lane railway bridge at Church Fenton in North Yorkshire is due to begin this weekend as part of the Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU).
The existing bridge structure is scheduled for removal on 10 and 11 October, followed by demolition of its brick arch section on 17 and 18 October. Replacement bridge beams, the deck, parapets and supports for overhead line equipment are planned to be installed between 24 October and 1 November.
Bridge replacement and electrification
The reconstructed bridge will provide the clearance needed for overhead line equipment, supporting the planned electrification of the route between York, Leeds, Huddersfield and Manchester. The work will also renew the existing overall bridge structure, which TRU said had reached the end of its service life.
TRU senior sponsor Adam Sellers said: “The reconstruction of Common Lane bridge means we’ll be able to fit overhead line equipment underneath, which means this series of improvement works will take us a step closer to delivering greener, electrified services through this stretch of railway and across the North.
“The reconstruction also incorporates a renewal of the life-expired overall bridge structure, preventing the need for further disruption in future.”
He added: “Our teams will be working around the clock to deliver this safely and on time, and I’d like to thank customers and our local communities for their understanding as we complete these vital works.”
Road reopening planned for 2027
Once the new bridge has been installed, contractors will continue with waterproofing works. Diverted utility services will then be moved into the bridge before the road is reinstated and reopened, which is scheduled for June 2027.
Separate improvement works on the East Coast Main Line in North Yorkshire are also planned for the weekends of 24-25 October and 31 October-1 November. These works will include track, drainage and overhead line equipment renewals at various locations.