Network Rail now picking up bridge damage compo
Quids in when structure hit
Network Rail have revealed that they have received thousands of pounds in compensation every time a railway bridge in Cleland has been struck by a vehicle.
The Wishaw Press reported last week that concerns were raised the public firm were quids in when the bridge at Bellside was hit by an HGV.
And this had led to residents questioning why no action has been taken to raise the bridge.
Now Network Rail have announced they have recovered more than £28,000 in compensation claims at the bridge since April 1, 2014
Louise Roarty, chairman of the community council, wrote a letter to Network Rail and Transport Scotland asking how much money Network Rail receive when the bridge is hit by a vehicle.
In a reply to Mrs Roarty’s email, Owen Campbell, spokesman for Network Rail, said: “I can confirm that from the start of this control period ( April 1, 2014), Network Rail have recovered £28,508.74 via insurance claims relating to bridge strikes at Bellside Road.”
Last month, the Wishaw Press reported that neighbours had welcomed an investigation raising one Bellside Bridge on the A73, one of the highest rail bridges in Scotland to have been struck by HGVs.
HGVs use the bridge through Cleland when there is a diversion on the motorway.
It has led to HGV and lorries hitting the bridge as they are unaware of the height restriction imposed there.
The community council have complained about the increase in HGVs entering and leaving the village’s industrial estate.
Some vehicles have been left stuck under the bridge, leading to traffic chaos in the village.
The feasibity study will look at options for raising the bridge and lowering the road local to the bridge.
The study is programmed to be completed by April.