Drivers may have to wait until Summer to cross the new Bromham Road rail bridge, but it’s official – cyclists and pedestrians can now safely access the new bridge.
The announcement came from Network Rail this week as they opened the footpath on the south side of the bridge for pedestrians, as well as temporarily opening half of one carriageway to cyclists.
This means that people can access the new bridge when they are out exercising, whilst following Government guidelines and staying at least two metres apart.
The news has been welcomed by the Green Party councillor, Ben Foley, who said, “It is really good news that the bridge is open to cyclists.”
On 6 May, the Bedford Independent published a letter from Peter Blakeman of the Cycling Campaign for North Bedfordshire, coinciding with the unofficial opening of the south side of the bridge.
Read: Letters: Bromham Road bridge reopened to cyclists and pedestrians
The announcement from Network Rail this week reinforces Peter’s comments, encouraging cyclists and pedestrians to use the new bridge.
Bromham Road closed in June 2019 and access has been maintained for pedestrians and dismounted cyclists via a temporary footbridge, which is being removed.
The improvements are part of the £1.5billion Midland Main Line Upgrade and will provide a safe distance for overhead line equipment to pass beneath the bridge, enabling the line between Bedford, Kettering and Corby to be electrified.
The final stages of the project are now taking place, which include work on the embankment and removing the temporary scaffold bridge. To allow this work to take place safely, Bromham Road is expected to remain closed to motorists until Summer 2020.
Gavin Crook, Principal Programme Sponsor for Network Rail, said, “It’s great to see major progress being made on the project to upgrade Bromham Road bridge and the new, wider footpath will benefit people in the area.
“Pedestrians and cyclists in Bedford can now access the new bridge over the railway when they are out exercising, whilst following Government guidelines and staying at least two metres apart.
“We would like to thank people in Bedford for their continued patience whilst this essential work is carried out. Once the Midland Main Line Upgrade is complete, passengers will benefit from increased capacity and more reliable services.”
