Keadby canal crossing: Rail users warned of disruption as work starts

The original Keadby sliding bridge dates to the late 1800s and is the only bridge of its kind in the UK, according to Network Rail

Rail users have been warned to expect disruption as engineering works are carried out at an unusual canal rail crossing near Scunthorpe.

The sliding railway bridge, near Keadby, carries the railway over the Stainforth and Keadby Canal.

Network Rail said engineers would be carrying out an extensive programme of work between 17 and 26 February.

A rail replacement service would operate between Doncaster and Scunthorpe, the firm said.

The original Keadby sliding bridge dates to the late 1800s and is the only bridge of its kind in the UK, according to Network Rail.

The firm said the work involved installing new rails as well as draining a section of the canal to allow for a new prefabricated concrete slab to be installed to stabilise a wall.

'Long-term improvements'

Matt Rice, from Network Rail, said: "This extensive programme of upgrades to Keadby sliding bridge and the canal wall will be beneficial for our passengers as they experience smoother, more reliable journeys as they travel by train between Doncaster and Scunthorpe.

"This is a large-scale piece of work, but we have deliberately planned to carry it out in a longer period so that our engineers can work to deliver all the vital maintenance and upgrades at once, rather than causing multiple periods of disruption."

Network Rail said train services would continue to run between Liverpool Lime Street and Doncaster and between Scunthorpe and Cleethorpes.

Passengers have been advised to check via National Rail Enquiries or their train operator before travelling.

Kerry Peters, regional director for Northern, welcomed the investment in the region's rail infrastructure.

"Whilst there will be short term inconvenience, this is about long-term improvements to the network and we ask for customers' patience and understanding during the period of disruption," she said.

Engineers would also be working to carry out repairs to the platform and renewal of the existing footbridge at Althorpe station, Network Rail said.