Network Rail is urgently repairing the only sliding railway bridge in Britain, located over Lincolnshire canal.
- The Vazon Sliding Railway Bridge allows trains to pass by sliding open to make way for canal boats before returning to its original position.
- A fault in the sliding mechanism, identified by sensors, required a specially manufactured replacement part.
- The repair works have closed the canal to boaters but left train services between Doncaster and Scunthorpe unaffected.
- Engineers are working swiftly to restore full bridge operation by the end of the week, in cooperation with the Canal and River Trust.
Railway engineers have undertaken the critical task of repairing the Vazon Sliding Railway Bridge. This unique structure, located over the Stainforth and Keadby Canal in Keadby near Scunthorpe, operates by sliding open to allow boats to pass and then returning to its position for trains. It is an essential part of the route connecting Doncaster, Scunthorpe, and the Lincolnshire coast, supporting a significant amount of freight train traffic.
Sensors installed on the bridge detected a malfunction in its sliding mechanism on 1 August, prompting immediate action from Network Rail. A crucial component necessary for its operation has been identified as needing replacement. Due to the bespoke nature of the part, a new one is currently being specially manufactured, highlighting the bridge’s unique engineering requirements.
The Vazon Sliding Railway Bridge stands out as Britain’s sole sliding railway bridge. Originally constructed in the 1860s, it was transformed into a sliding bridge in 1925 by the celebrated civil engineer Sir William Arrol. This design enabled easier replacement of an older swing bridge with minimal disruption to rail services, as parts of the original swing bridge’s foundations are still visible.
A notable aspect of this historical bridge is its battery-operated mechanism. It utilises a set of 64 batteries, akin to those in submarines, which are trickle-charged to operate the bridge’s functions. This system not only powers the bridge but serves as a backup, ensuring continuous operation even in unforeseen circumstances.
Current repair operations on the Vazon Sliding Railway Bridge have required the closure of the canal to boat traffic, though train services continue uninterrupted. Network Rail has assured that the repairs are proceeding with urgency, with full functionality expected to be restored by the end of the week. They are collaborating with the Canal and River Trust to provide updates on the canal’s reopening.
The timely repairs promise to bring the Vazon Sliding Railway Bridge back to full operation, reaffirming its role in the transport network.
