Work on a bridge reconstruction project in Wiltshire is now complete.

The A3102 road in Royal Wootton Bassett will reopen next week following the Bath Road bridge being rebuilt as part of a major electrification programme.

The scheme has created the additional space needed for the overhead lines that will power a new fleet of electric trains on the Great Western Main Line from London to Cardiff.

In addition, Network Rail has carried out drainage work on the highway, to lower the risk of flooding, and has prepared the adjacent listed Hunts Mill bridge for forthcoming work to raise its parapets in order to provide a safe distance between those using the bridge and the high-voltage electricity cables. Specially-made railings are due to be added to the bridge overnight between 08 May and 15 May.


Garry Fernand, Network Rail project manager for Bath Road bridge, said: "The improvements we are carrying out in Royal Wootton Bassett as part of our Railway Upgrade Plan are extensive but essential in order to bring our railway into the 21st century and improve passengers' experience.

"We'd like to thank residents and motorists for their patience and understanding during the bridge reconstructions, which will pave the way for electrification and the benefits this will bring."

(LM)