Leeds bridge reopens after delayed £2m project

A railway bridge connecting parts of Leeds has reopened following a £2.3m improvement project.

Fall Lane Bridge, which crosses the Leeds-Sheffield rail line and joins East Ardsley and Thorpe village, was closed to traffic in October. 

The work was planned to be finished by December 19 but was delayed.

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But contractors have now completed the upgrades and the bridge has reopened. Councillor Jack Dunn said: “It is great news that the long wait for the bridge strengthening work is over and the bridge is now capable of taking heavy vehicles and buses.

“And whilst it has to be understood that the completion of the bridge will not please everyone living in the immediate area due to the subsequent increase in noise and volume of traffic, it will be a bonus to others who have had to make a detour.”

Bin collection vehicles and buses to East Ardsley and Thorpe had to be diverted after the three-tonne weight restriction was put on the bridge in 2010 because of structural problems. As part of the upgrade project by Leeds City Council and Network Rail, the bridge has now been strengthened, painted and waterproofed.

It should now be able to facilitate vehicles up to a weight of 7.5-tonnes.

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A Network Rail spokesperson said: “We would like to take this opportunity to thank residents and users of the bridge for their patience whilst this vital upgrade was carried out and apologise for any inconvenience caused.”