The temporary footbridge at Brading Train Station, which was first erected in March 2021, could be in situ for a while longer as Network Rail puts forward a plan to the Isle of Wight Council for it to remain at the site for another 12 months.
As previously reported by Island Echo works to repair the Grade II listed footbridge at the station on Station Road in the village got underway in March 2022, with a scaffold alternative to the bridge constructed.
It was approved by the Isle of Wight Council on the condition it would be removed within 12 months of its erection – despite it being thought it would only take 6 months.
However, some 12 months – later in April 2022 – the footbridge wasn’t ready after problems with its footings caused lengthy delays.
That month, some 13 months after the project got underway, a plan was put forward by Network Rail once more to extend the period of use for the scaffold bridge for another year. However, it was withdrawn just a few weeks later after the council deemed that a prior approval condition could not be varied.
Since May 2022 workers and engineers have seldom been seen on the site, with it unclear as to what has actually been addressed.
The saga has rumbled on for over 18 months and it has now been revealed that the request from Network Rail to keep the temporary bridge in place has been re-submitted.
Like last time, Network Rail has given written assurances that they do in fact believe that works will be completed within 12 months, which at this rate could be in early 2024. No time estimate on when the bridge is due to be finished has been given.
The designs and plans for the restoration of the listed bridge are to remain as they were the first time around.
I personally think there are far too many ‘ listed’ buildings etc,. The price these days to keep up it 200 year old looks are very expensive. About time that buildings that are failing, should be allowed to be completely replaced with up to date materials and styles. Cannot live in the past forever. If property listed property has to be repaired, they should pay for it. They being the ones that made it a listed property. Maybe the railway should erect a modern up the other end.. see how many use the ‘ listed ‘ one..
Let’s all just hope this gets fixed soon so we can all carry on with our lives and get behind our wonderful and amazing council & government.
Also we’ll done to this chaps and chapesess carrying out the work.