EAST Anglia’s three swing bridges are to get mechanical and electrical upgrades which will improve reliability and reduce delays and disruption for boat users.
Located at Oulton Broad, Somerleyton and Reedham, the structures are understood to date from around 1905. The internal components have not been replaced in over 100 years and need frequent and costly maintenance.
Beginning in the autumn, Network Rail’s engineers will be upgrading the internal components for each bridge which includes replacing the winch systems, lighting and hydraulic jacks and pipework – plus installing new power systems.
This work will make the bridges less prone to faults, reducing the need for maintenance and will be able to operate more reliably. The upgrades will bring more reliability, as there have been occasions where the bridges have stuck part or fully open, impacting both rail and boat traffic.