Motorists in Leicestershire will, from January, be able to drive over a bridge which partially collapsed onto the Midland Mainline this summer.

 

One side of the Grove Lane bridge in the village of Barrow upon Soar fell away on 1 August, leaving brickwork strewn across rail tracks below.

 

As part of the permanent repair Network Rail has said that the bridge parapets will be raised slightly to provide enough room for electrical wires to be installed as part of a route upgrade.

 

“The plans we have put forward for Grove Lane not only make it safer for vehicles but also future proof the bridge for electrification in Leicestershire,” Network Rail's area director Gary Walsh said.

 

Following the partial collapse this summer the railway was reopened the following day and pedestrians were allowed across the bridge three weeks later.

 

Two hundred tonnes of debris were removed from the tracks, tie bars and plates have been installed through the bridge and the surface has been sprayed with concrete to provide stability. A long term repair will see work carried out to the railway embankment and restoration of the brick parapet wall.

 

Network Rail says that the Rail Accident Investigation Branch is currently conducting an inquiry into what caused the incident.

 

Barrow upon Soar councillor Claire Forrest said: “It will be good to get back to normal service when the traffic is allowed to return. I have heard that Network Rail has promised to mark the reopening with a community gathering in the local scout hut.”

 

(Photo: Network Rail)