To help Wales’ railway service to continue to serve commuters, an existing bridge will be replaced shortly, as part of a project to upgrade much of the UK’s network.
Pembroke Road railway bridge will be refitted in a couple of weeks, with residents of Haverfordwest reminded that Pembroke Road will be closed to through traffic and pedestrians between Friday 18 January and Monday 21 January due to essential work ahead of the replacement. There will also be a bus replacement service between Whitland and Milford Haven over the weekend.
This is due to Network Rail’s £4.25 million Railway Upgrade Plan to improve the infrastructure, and subsequently, its service to all those who use it.
Scheme project manager for Network Rail in Wales and Borders Rhys Howells said: “We have been working closely with Pembrokeshire County Council and other partners to minimise disruption, and to develop the diversionary routes.”
The existing structure is more than 100 years old, and nearing the end of its lifespan, which is why it is being replaced by Network Rail.
It is not the only railway bridge in Pembrokeshire to be upgraded this year, with Milford Road railway bridge also preparing to be replaced in 2019. Work will begin on this in mid-February, with the passing to be closed between Friday 15 February and Monday 18 February.
Milford Road was constructed in 1939, making the structure 80 years old this year, while Pembroke Road underbridge was first built as long ago as 1856, with the bridge decking replaced in 1937.
More information about bridge jacking replacements for rail upgrades can be found here.