Heritage rail line bridge restoration completed
WORK ANOTHER STEP TOWARDS GREAT CENTRAL REUNIFICATION
A VICTORIAN bridge has been restored to carry trains for Great Central Railway.
Two days of work last week saw the completion of an 18-month programme to refurbish the bridge over the Grand Union Canal, which last carried a train in 1972.
The repaired bridge will help the heritage railway in Leicestershire connect with its counterpart in Nottinghamshire, creating an 18-mile line for steam and vintage diesel trains.
A new bridge has already been built over the Midland Mainline at Loughborough.
The refurbishment of the canal bridge is the second of seven phases of work.
Andy Fillingham, chairman of the Friends of the Great Central Main Line, said: “Once again, we have to say a very big thank you to everyone who has supported the appeal to reunify the railways, particularly the crossing the canal campaign.
“It’s amazing what we have all achieved together and shows how people power is getting the two railways reconnected.”
Work on the canal bridge was expected to be completed early in the year but was delayed first by winter storms and then the lockdown.
Some minor work remains to be carried out on the Loughborough landmark and a final inspection to ensure it is fit for use.
The contractors developed an innovative approach to the repairs which meant work could be carried out with only one closure of the canal, which took place in November and December to avoid disruption to pleasure boats.
Andy said: “We’re now raising money for the next stage of the Great Central Railway Reunification project.
“Installing two more bridges that are needed is expected to cost £3 million.
“Despite the lockdown and uncertain times, supporters from across the East Midlands and further afield have been very generous and we have now raised £175,000 and the total is climbing all the time.
“We can’t continue to build until we have raised the majority of the money but hope everything that has happened so far will inspire people to find out more, get involved and donate.”
The next online talk about the reunification plan takes place via Zoom on Sunday, July 26, at 7pm.
For a minimum of £10, donors will be have a 75-minute presentation.