Major Update on Damaged Bridge After Train Derailment in Audenshaw
The bridge in Audenshaw will remain closed for several months due to ongoing repairs
Audenshaw, Train Derailment, Bridge Repairs, Network Rail, UK
Audenshaw: So, there’s been a big update about that bridge that got messed up after the train derailment last September. It turns out the bridge is going to be closed for quite a while, like several months.
The Rail Accident Investigation Branch is still looking into what happened. A freight train derailed while crossing the bridge, and thankfully, no one got hurt. But it really did a number on the railway infrastructure and some of the train cars.
The train was carrying aggregates and went off the tracks on September 6. Since then, the area under the bridge has been blocked off. The RAIB is trying to figure out exactly what went wrong and what the condition of everything was at the time.
Recently, the Team Audenshaw Labour group shared that National Rail confirmed the bridge will stay closed for a while longer. They know folks are worried about it, and they’re trying to keep everyone in the loop.
Right now, there are metal railings and signs blocking the footpath under the bridge, which got pretty damaged. They’re estimating it’ll cost around £200,000 for repairs, and that could take about six months.
Network Rail has apologized for the disruption and is grateful for everyone’s patience. They’ve set up a footpath diversion, but they know it’s not ideal for residents.
They’re working on a long-term repair plan, but it’s a bit complicated. They couldn’t fix everything at once because of the structure’s condition. They’re hoping to finalize the designs soon and start the actual repairs in April.
They even looked into a temporary fix to reopen the footpath sooner, but it would cost a lot and take time. They decided it’s better to focus on the long-term solution instead. They’ll keep the community updated on what’s next.