Work begins on temporary footbridge over Midland Mainline after …

A temporary footbridge is being built in Kibworth after residents had their safety concerns heard about the long closure[1] of a bridge used by hundreds to get to school and access shops. School Bridge is set to be demolished in Autumn and then rebuilt to allow Network Rail to electrify the railway between Kettering and Wigston.

Residents were first notified of this work in May and were told the bridge would be closed for eight months, with no temporary bridge on offer and the prospect of a long diversion route. But this led to outrage among residents as the bridge is used by many to get to both Kibworth Primary School and Kibworth Mead Academy and would also require people to cross two busy roads.[2]

Many villagers raised safety concerns, who also added it would affect those with mobility issues and parents with buggies, who would struggle to use alternative routes such as the nearby tin bridge due to its steep steps and narrow walkway. Network Rail then agreed to meet with the aggrieved residents after being contacted by district councillors.

After listening to the villagers, the rail company decided it would build a[4] temporary footbridge, which will be completed in the autumn. A new, permanent bridge will also be built which is set to be completed in spring next year.

Gavin Crook of Network Rail[5] said: “I’m pleased that work is pushing forward to build a temporary bridge whilst the existing bridge at School Road is reconstructed, clearing space for overhead line equipment to be installed underneath. We have listened carefully to Kibworth villagers, as well as the parish council, and have worked to agree a diversion route that best suits the needs of the community.

"The temporary bridge will make sure that those with pushchairs, wheelchairs and scooters can safely access local schools and nurseries in the village. I’d like to thank the community for their feedback and support, and I look forward to the new bridge opening next year.”

The village's local representative's on Harborough District Council[6] and the local MP, Conservative Neil O'Brien also arranged a meeting with representatives from Network Rail in June to voice residents' concerns.

Simon Whelband, a Tory district councillor for the Kibworths ward said at the time: "I am pleased that Network Rail have taken onboard concerns raised by local councillors, the MP, and residents. A temporary footbridge will be a relief for all those who faced a lengthy diversion when the existing bridge will be closed."

References

  1. ^ residents had their safety concerns heard about the long closure (www.leicestermercury.co.uk)
  2. ^ would also require people to cross two busy roads. (www.leicestermercury.co.uk)
  3. ^ Junior doctors confirm more strike action amid pay dispute (www.leicestermercury.co.uk)
  4. ^ decided it would build a (www.leicestermercury.co.uk)
  5. ^ Network Rail (www.leicestermercury.co.uk)
  6. ^ Harborough District Council (www.leicestermercury.co.uk)

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