NETWORK Rail and Story Contracting have successfully removed the old footbridge at Port Glasgow Railway Station as part of a £5 million access for all project at the station.
The crossing had connected platforms one and two at the station prior to it being taken out of use in December last year, following the opening of the new fully accessible footbridge and lifts at the station.
In the early hours of Sunday February 11, the bridge deck weighing 15 tonnes was lifted off and placed on a trombone trailer, with the help of a 500-tonne crane set up in the Highholm Avenue park-and-ride car park.
The wider £5 million access for all project aims to provide step-free access at the station, making it easier for those with limited mobility or travelling with children, luggage, or cycles to move between the platforms.
Laura Craig, Network Rail’s scheme project manager for the Port Glasgow access for all project, said, “We are delighted with how the bridge removal went last weekend. This was another successful step in what has been an extremely well-organised and well-delivered project. Our work is a great example of Scotland’s Railway working together effectively. We were able to schedule the bridge to be removed while the line was closed due to work taking place on the Inverclyde line to help minimise disruption for passengers.
“Again, we would like to thank passengers for their patience and understanding during the work.”
Paul Shopp, project manager at STORY Contracting, added, “The removal and demolition of the existing footbridge signifies another key milestone and moves us one step closer to completing what will be a fantastic project and asset for the local community. Collaborative working and diligent planning with our supply chain and Network Rail created a safe environment for this work to be executed over a single weekend, helping to minimise disruption on Scotland’s Railway.
“A special thank you to the local community and commuters for their patience over the last 12 months as we carry out this work.”
