Bridge demolition work starts

DEMOLITION work has started on a bridge in Glasgow.

We previously reported Network Rail will pull down the bridge deck over the railway at Shields Road, in the city’s Southside, and clear the debris from the track this weekend.

Work started on Friday night and is continuing up to today.

Glasgow Times photographer Colin Mearns captured images of the site on Saturday morning.

The temporary footbridge over the railway will be closed during the demolition, with diversions put in place for pedestrians and cyclists.

The fastest route on roads will be via St Andrews Road, Maxwell Road, Eglinton Street, Kilbirnie Street, West Street, Scotland Street and vice versa, taking around 30 minutes to walk or five to 10 minutes to cycle.

Speaking ahead of the demolition, Laura Craig, Network Rail’s project manager for the bridge work, said: “Demolishing the bridge deck at Shields Road is a significant milestone for the project and with it removed, we can focus on building the new bridge which will better serve the community.

“Unfortunately, the footbridge cannot be used during part of the demolition weekend.

“We know this is inconvenient for those living and working in the area but is the only way that the work can be delivered safely and efficiently.

“We will be working continuously from Friday night until Monday morning to complete this vital piece of engineering work.”

Following the demolition, teams will focus on preparing for the construction of the new bridge deck which will be “stronger, wider and better able to handle the size and volume of traffic that needs to travel over it”.

A section of Shields Road closed on Monday, August 28, 2023, to allow for the £ 12.6 million upgrade of the railway bridge and is expected to reopen in August this year.

The closure stretches from St Andrews Drive to Scotland Street.