en.Wedoany.com Reported - A key milestone has been reached in the reconstruction of Kirk Hill Bridge in Nottinghamshire, UK, with the lifting of road closures that had been in place for over 18 months.

All traffic restrictions were removed on Friday, July 17, following the completion of the main bridge reconstruction works. The project is scheduled for completion in September, with remaining tasks including dismantling construction hoardings and site restoration.

Last month, the New Civil Engineer (NCE) reported that 14,000 bricks were used in the new structure.

The project was delivered by the Network Rail team in partnership with main contractor AmcoGiffen. The works encompassed multiple phases: installing a temporary utility bridge to carry gas, electricity, water, and broadband services throughout the project; installing new bridge components; constructing new parapet walls and high-strength concrete to meet modern safety standards; transferring utility services onto the new deck; and completing highway and drainage works.

The bridge reconstruction was originally planned as part of the Midland Main Line electrification project. Although the electrification program has been paused, the Department for Transport (DfT) approved the project to proceed due to its long-term benefits for freight and rail, while ensuring the line is ready for future electrification.

According to Network Rail, the reconstructed bridge will provide clearance for larger freight trains, enabling more goods to be transported by rail rather than road, helping to reduce congestion and support a more sustainable transport network; improve railway maintenance access, supporting the removal of long-standing speed restrictions and enhancing reliability; and provide sufficient headroom for electric or bi-mode trains operating under the new bridge.

The old bridge was demolished during the Christmas period in 2025. Other key works were carried out during nights and weekends, enabling engineers to deliver the project while keeping the railway open.

Nick Wilton, Senior Sponsor at Network Rail, said the Kirk Hill Bridge project was planned to minimize disruption to passengers while delivering this important structural upgrade. He acknowledged that the road closures caused some unavoidable disruption to residents and businesses and apologized for the inconvenience caused. The project team has worked with the council to mitigate impacts as much as possible and maintained close contact with the community, incorporating feedback received from regular community meetings from the start of the project. He expressed delight at reaching another significant milestone with the lifting of road restrictions, thanked everyone for their patience, and noted that final works to remove hoardings and restore the site would be completed.