Oxhey Grange footbridge removed by Network Rail
Urgent intervention required due to rapid deterioration of the structure.
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Network Rail carried out an urgent removal of the Oxhey Grange footbridge near Watford over the past weekend. The structure, which crosses the railway line south of Bushey station, had been scheduled for replacement. However, recent routine inspections indicated a faster rate of deterioration than previously assessed, prompting an immediate intervention to ensure safety.
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Engineers worked through Saturday night and into Sunday morning to dismantle the bridge. The operation involved a specialist 1200 tonne heavy-lift crane, capable of lifting 100 tonnes. This method allowed for the bridge to be lifted out in a single operation, significantly reducing the time the railway line remained closed. The railway reopened to passengers ahead of the planned 4pm handover.
Gary Walsh, director for Network Rail’s West Coast South route, stated that the work was a complex operation on one of the UK’s busiest railways. He expressed satisfaction that the teams completed the work safely and reopened the line earlier than anticipated. The bridge, originally built when the railway was a four-track line, was later extended to span the current six tracks.
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Although the bridge connected Sherwoods Wood to nearby houses, it served as the only crossing over the railway for several miles to the south. A nearby crossing to the north requires a substantial detour. The bridge had been closed to pedestrians in late July following initial inspections that identified problems. Network Rail has stated it will engage with local stakeholders regarding plans for a future replacement crossing.
Questions this report answers
+Why was the Oxhey Grange footbridge urgently removed?
Routine inspections revealed the Oxhey Grange footbridge near Watford had deteriorated faster than expected. This rapid deterioration required urgent intervention by Network Rail to ensure the safety of passengers, railway workers, and the local community.
+How was the bridge removed?
A specialist 1200 tonne heavy-lift crane was used to dismantle and remove the Oxhey Grange footbridge. This approach allowed the bridge to be lifted in a single operation, which helped to significantly reduce the closure time for the railway line.
+When did the railway line reopen?
The railway line reopened to passengers ahead of the planned 4pm handover time on Sunday. The swift completion of the complex operation allowed for an earlier than scheduled reopening.
+What are the plans for a new crossing?
Network Rail has stated that it will engage with local stakeholders to develop plans for a future replacement crossing. The specific timeline and design for a new bridge have not yet been detailed.
WE FILE
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