Reedham Swing Bridge - Scheduled openings before repair works commence

Following negotiations and thorough testing, Network Rail have agreed to a limited schedule of openings of Reedham Swing Bridge in order to allow large boats to pass. These are the last opportunities for the safe passage of large boats before extensive works to replace the main bearing of the bridge start on 4 August.

The openings are as follows:

• Friday 31 July, 09:13am to 10:01am
• Tuesday 4 August 09:13am to 10:01am and 18:13pm to 19:01pm

Broads Authority Rangers will be present to ensure priority is given to large boats wishing to pass at these times.

Network Rail engineers will carefully monitor the bridge during each swing and the plan for the openings will be kept under close review. Hot weather restrictions on the bridge will apply as normal - the bridge can’t be swung if temperatures get too high because its main structures and rails expand in the heat.

Network Rail engineers are working to fix Reedham swing bridge this summer following a major mechanical fault which means its operators can’t reliably open it to let larger boats pass through.

The bridge, which carries trains over the River Yare as well as swinging open for the safe passage of larger boats, is being affected by problems with its central bearing. The bearing forms part of the main pivot and helps to support the structure as it opens and closes. Teams are already on site carrying out preparatory works ahead of replacing the bearing entirely.

Fixing the 123-year-old bridge will involve a complex programme of engineering, expected to be delivered as follows:

• Until Friday 7 August – preparatory works, including construction of a temporary support frame to take weight off the bearing while it is replaced
• Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 August – removal of old bearing
• Monday 10 August to Friday 28 August – full assessment of the mechanism and final preparation of new components
• Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 August – installation of new bearing
• Monday 31 August to mid-September – follow-up works including dismantling the support frame, testing and commissioning

For further details please read our joint press release with Network Rail.

Please direct any questions or complaints to Network Rail's Contact Form: networkrail.co.uk/contact-us