Victorian Bridge Removal in South London Completed

Osborne, on behalf of Network Rail has successfully removed two Victorian bridges over the train line between Hackbridge and Mitcham, south London.
These two Victorian bridges, known as Hundred Acre and Irrigation bridges have been removed due owing to the costs of maintenance over an essential transport link into central London.

The bridges never carried traffic, but were pedestrian routes into the Beddington Farmlands from the surrounding Hackbridge area. However in recent years the two bridges have been disused and no public access was given as the structures were in poor condition; the operation has left the foundations in place, forming a vital habitat for flora, fauna and local wildlife. The brickwork which has been removed will be recycled as pathways within the site.

Bob Vidler, Project Manager at Osborne said; “The team, along with our supply chain partners, worked quickly and efficiently over the weekend to make sure the job was complete. We worked with local stakeholders and ecological specialists to ensure that the way in which we removed the structures minimised the impact to the surrounding ecology. We would also like to thank the local residents for their understanding during these works.”

Huw Abbey, Project Manager at Network Rail said; “A lot of work has been done over the last year, around environmental surveys, bats and consultation with locals and Councils, so it’s especially pleasing to see such a well executed job at the end. Great result and many thanks.”