TransLogistics

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One week to go until Kent road / rail bridge closes

The Kingsferry bridge linking the mainland to the Isle of Sheppey in [1] is set for another closure as repair works continue on the structure. This time, the closure will take place during the October Half-Term week, with [2] and [3] advising that regular users of the bridge, especially motorists on Sheppey and in [4], should make alternative plans and try to travel off-peak using a different route when travelling. Engineers will be replacing corroded lifting and counterweight ropes in the Sheppy side towers that allow the bridge to be raised and lowered for shipping.

The work will necessitate an 8-day closure during the October half-term, from 10 pm on Friday 25 October to 5 am on Sunday 3 November. The work is a continuation on from completion of the replacement of the lifting ropes in the Kent towers during the June and July closures[5].

Kingsferry Bridge - Network RailKingsferry Bridge in the open position // Credit: Network Rail

Taking into account previous closures, Network Rail has chosen to carry out the work during the half-term when most schools are closed, with traffic on local roads reduced, which allows people more flexibility with their travel plans. To minimize traffic during the October closure, Network Rail and Kent County Council have agreed to temporarily remove the traffic management system from the northbound carriageway on the A249.

A similar procedure to previous closures this year will be in place. Free vehicle recovery will be provided from Cowstead Corner to Bobbing Roundabout. Requests for non-emergency roads in the area will be declined.

Shuttle buses will be available for rail passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists, as well as those with mopeds and motorbikes that are below 50cc.

Kingsferry Bridge. // Credit: Network RailKingsferry Bridge. // Credit: Network Rail

"We know there's never a good time to close the Kingsferry Bridge.

It's vitally important to rail passengers, motorists, pedestrians, cyclists, commercial shipping and leisure boats.

The local road network is busy with holiday traffic in summer and school and commuter traffic, as well as road freight the rest of the year.  

David Davidson, Network Rail's Route Director for Kent

References

  1. ^ (www.railadvent.co.uk)
  2. ^ (www.railadvent.co.uk)
  3. ^ (www.railadvent.co.uk)
  4. ^ (www.railadvent.co.uk)
  5. ^ The work is a continuation on from completion of the replacement of the lifting ropes in the Kent towers during the June and July closures (www.railadvent.co.uk)

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