The iconic Hungerford Railway Bridge in London is getting a major upgrade to preserve its historic charm and ensure safety for years to come
London: An iconic bridge is getting a facelift. The Hungerford Railway Bridge, which opened in 1845, is set for a major restoration. It crosses the River Thames and connects key areas in the city.
Network Rail owns this bridge, and they want to protect it for the future. The bridge sits between Waterloo and Westminster Bridges, making it a vital part of the city’s transport.
Work started on January 18, and it will happen in two phases. The first phase will run from January 2025 to January 2026. During this time, trains will still run on the bridge.
They plan to test and replace some parts, and give it a fresh coat of paint. The second phase will take place from January 2026 to winter 2028.
David Davidson, Network Rail’s Kent route director, mentioned that many bridges in Britain are quite old. They face challenges like corrosion and weather damage.
To minimize disruption, they’ll use barges to transport materials instead of trucks. This will help keep traffic flowing in central London.
The bridge is named after Hungerford Market, a popular spot back in the day. It’s great to see such a historic structure getting the care it deserves!
