Lincoln footbridge road closure time shortened

Plans to close a road in Lincoln for six months in order to build a footbridge over railway tracks have been lifted.

According to Network Rail, the company behind the plans, Brayford Wharf East will no longer need to be closed for the entire duration on the project.

Instead, work will begin in January as planned, but the road will only be closed to motorists if needed, with pedestrian access maintained.

This is due to the project no longer requiring a full road closure for the detailed surveying and delayed service diversion works.

Therefore Network Rail suspended the closure in order to minimise disruption to the city.

In a statement, Network Rail said: “Network Rail apologises for any confusion over recent road signs on Brayford Wharf East indicating that the road would be closed from today.

“Plans for a new pedestrian footbridge to provide alternative, constant access over the railway are at detailed design stage, requiring site investigations and diversions of services in the road.

“Initial plans indicated that this work would require a full road closure. The project team has worked to minimise the impact of these works and the road closure is now cancelled.

“Future road closures will be agreed with the Highways Authority and publicised in advance. A detailed programme for the construction of the bridge will be published once available.”

The new Brayford level crossing bridge designs from Network Rail, by Stem Architects

As previously reported, the footbridge will have lifts for disabled access as well as steps, and the plans include work to clear the swan jetty, move the old signal box closer to the water and enlarge the university campus bridge.

Work will begin from around January 13, with Lincolnshire County Council also making use of the project by improving paving and cycling facilities.

The footbridge aims to help reduce waiting times for pedestrians at the level crossing, therefore stopping people running through the barriers dangerously.