Tipton railway bridge going to allow Metro extension
Work on part of the Metro extension will accelerate next month when the demolition of another major structure along the route begins.
Progress on the Wednesbury-to-Brierley Hill leg of the network has continued through the summer and the demolition of the redundant railway bridge in Coneygree Road, Tipton, will mark another major step forward.
There has already been the successful removal of a similar structure along the disused South Staffordshire Railway line last month.
Works to remove the bridge are set to start on October 12, when the extension’s construction team will begin a three-week project to clear overgrowth and enable access to the area before the bridge is taken down. A new, purpose-built structure will be installed later in the programme.
A localised road closure, for a period of up to six weeks, is required on Coneygree Road and Victoria Road between the junctions of Peel Street and Tudor Street.
Councillor Jackie Taylor, Sandwell Council’s cabinet member for sustainable transport, said: “It is great to see so much progress being made on the new Metro extension from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill.
"These bridge works will bring this much-needed route closer to fruition, which is exciting for both residents and businesses alike, particularly when you consider the boost in investment and regeneration it will bring to Sandwell.
Exciting
“As there may be some localised travel disruption during these works, we encourage people in the area to plan their journeys, or where possible consider walking or cycling as an alternative.”
Ian Collins, project director for the Midland Metro Alliance, added: “That we are getting ready to demolish yet another major structure along the Wednesbury-to-Brierley Hill Metro extension is a clear sign construction is moving ahead at pace.
"The bridge is being replaced so that it can meet the needs of a modern light rail network.
“This is an exciting time for the project and it is fantastic people can now see these works progressing in their local area.”
During the activity, a short diversion route will be in place for both pedestrians and vehicle users enabling them to complete their essential journeys.
In addition, traffic marshals will be present 24 hours a day to assist those living in Coneygree Road and Victoria Road.
