Pictures show work to replace railway bridge in Sheffield which caused delays to trains over the weekend
“Replacing this life-expired bridge will help continue the safe and reliable operation of the railway for decades to come”
Network Rail disrupted services around Sheffield over the weekend for a massive bridge replacement project.
Construction workers on Saturday and Sunday, November 7 and 8, were involved in a second attempt to replace a “life-expired bridge” near the Dore and Totley station.
Work saw them install a new 73-tonne bridge deck above the River Sheaf, lifted into place by crane.
Sixty metres of rail were also renewed, held in place with 86 tonnes of ballast and 90 new sleepers.
Pictures from the scene show large cranes and construction vehicles around the area as work took place.
Services running between Derby, Chesterfield and Sheffield were disrupted throughout the process, with images showing train carriages carrying construction materials stopped at the scene.
Tom Grainger, Network Rail lead portfolio manager, said ahead of the work: “Replacing this life-expired bridge will help continue the safe and reliable operation of the railway for decades to come.
“We appreciate that this is the second time we’ve asked people to adjust their travel plans and parking arrangements, and we’re very sorry for any inconvenience.
“We’re grateful to passengers, residents and businesses for their continued patience. We’re working closely with train operators to minimise disruption and encourage anyone planning to travel over the weekend of 7-8 November to check their journey with their operator or National Rail before setting off.”