Demolition dates for rail bridges in key stage of major electrification project in Fife
Network Rail has revealed more details about a major part of its plan to electrify the rail line through Fife.
Several bridges will be demolished in October as the £311m project reaches a critical stage – and train services will be impacted.
The work is part of the electrification of the Fife Circle route and introduction of new battery-electric trains. Over 18 days, engineers will carry out bridge replacements, track and signalling upgrades, and other improvements in the area to clear the way for the installation of new overhead power lines.
During the closures, bridges at Bennochy Road in Kirkcaldy, Muriespot bridge near Coaltown of Balgonie, and Main Street in Thornton will be demolished and rebuilt.
Teams will also upgrade the bridge on Cardenden Road in Cardenden, make track changes, install foundations and structures for electrification equipment, and carry out extensive signalling upgrades.
Three planned rail closures will allow teams to complete some of the most complex parts of the project safely and efficiently: at Inverkeithing and Thornton North from October 10-20; at Thornton North, Cupar and Hilton Junction from the 20th-24th, and Lochgelly and Glenrothes from the 24th to 28th.
Customers are being asked to check their specific journeys with their train operator before travelling, with more information on alternative transport becoming available closer to the time.
Michael McArthur, project manager at Network Rail Scotland, said: "This project paves the way for the introduction of battery-electric trains on one of Scotland's busiest rail routes. It will help increase capacity, improve reliability and deliver more accessible, comfortable and sustainable journeys for passengers.
"We know there's never an ideal time to close any part of the railway, and our teams have planned the work carefully to keep the impact to a minimum. We appreciate the patience of passengers and local residents while these improvements take place.”
Mark Ilderton, ScotRail service delivery director, said: “This work is an important step forward in delivering a more modern, sustainable, and reliable railway for Scotland.
“We’re working closely with Network Rail to help keep customers moving when the improvements are delivered, and we’ll have a rail replacement transport plan in place to ensure customers can continue to travel with confidence.”