June 6, 2016 10.43 am This story is over 93 months old

Lincoln High Street footbridge to open later this month, Network Rail confirms

Network Rail has confirmed that the new footbridge over the rail crossing on Lincoln High Street will open later this month. Work began on the £12 million pedestrian bridge in March 2015, but the project has been beset by delays and unexpected problems, causing it to open over six months later than first anticipated. Plans…
The Lincoln High Street level crossing footbridge is finally beginning to take shape. Photo: The Lincolnite

Network Rail has confirmed that the new footbridge over the rail crossing on Lincoln High Street will open later this month.

Work began on the £12 million pedestrian bridge in March 2015, but the project has been beset by delays and unexpected problems, causing it to open over six months later than first anticipated.

Plans for a footbridge have been in the pipeline for years and decades beforehand, but various projects have suffered from financial problems and cancellations.

In September 2015, an eight-week delay due to the discovery of high levels of asbestos pushed the finish date further back.

The new footbridge will offer pedestrians and cyclists safe access across the rail line, and end the frustrating waiting times at the barriers.

The Lincoln High Street level crossing. Photo: File/The Lincolnite

The Lincoln High Street level crossing. Photo: File/The Lincolnite

Brayford footbridge

Following the opening of the High Street footbridge, Network Rail is also expected to apply for planning permission for a second footbridge, this time over Brayford Wharf.

The scheme was originally supposed to have been completed in September 2013 but rising costs and delays caused the project to be shelved in the summer of 2015, with Network Rail describing the project as no longer affordable.

New designs revealed for the Brayford Wharf footbridge on April 8, 2016. Photo: Network Rail

New designs revealed for the Brayford Wharf footbridge on April 8, 2016. Photo: Network Rail

However, the rail operator has now revealed more cost-effective redesigns for the footbridge and aims to submit a formal planning application in the autumn.

Changes include the removal of lifts, leaving stepped access.

Work is also ongoing on a footpath to link the High Street with Brayford Wharf.