Hundreds support bridge campaign
Strong backing for Observer petition
Hundreds of Stirling residents have already backed an Observer campaign calling for the 12-month closure of a main route through Stirling to be reduced.
On Wednesday, we launched a petition calling for Network Rail and Stirling Council to work together to significantly reduce the timescale currently proposed for the removal and replacement of Kerse Bridge, due to the effect it will have on traffic and businesses.
And yesterday (Thursday) more than 600 people had backed the petition in less than 24 hours, with residents and businesses backing our call for the timescale to be reduced.
Network Rail have said replacing the bridge is a necessary part of its electrification plans, as the track cannot be lowered at Stirling due to safety concerns.
Springkerse business owner John Hardie is among those who have backed the petition. He said: “There must be a smart civil engineer somewhere who can overcome any such risk of flooding for much less cost than that of a new bridge. The simple fact is that with all the adverse publicity that our trains have been getting, it has been decided that disruption of rail service is not an option for them and to hell with Stirling. Our council must stand up for our city and its businesses and tell Network Rail to come up with an alternative.”
Scott McLean, of Stirling Electrical Services, has also signed up. He said: “This petition is not about the need for the closure. It’s about the length of time to replace a bridge on main Stirling road artery.”
King’s Park resident Duncan Edward, a 76-year-old retired sales representative, dropped into the Observer’s Upper Craigs office to sign the petition.
He said: “I think Network Rail is looking to do this as cheaply as possible and with the least inconvenience to the railway timetable, but in my mind there is no way it should take 12 months. They could build a Forth Bridge in that time.”
Network Rail has said that replacing the bridge is necessary, as there are no other options for electrifying the line at Kerse Road.
Dave Boyce, senior communications manager for Network Rail, said: “We fully acknowledge the impact this will have on the immediate community and road users. The programme consists of four months construction period for the bridge. The rest of the programme is required to move and reinstate the utilities. We try to align all activities to deliver the works as quickly and safely as possible.
“It is in no-one’s interest to prolong works unnecessarily and we will work to continue to challenge the programme.”
Stirling Council has said it is working with Network Rail to minimise inconvenience to local businesses, residents and those working in the area.
To sign the petition, visit bit.ly/ KersePetition or see our Facebook and twitter pages. You can also sign a paper copy of the petition at our offices in 34 Upper Craigs, Stirling, FK8 2DW.