A bridge too far? Llanbradach has second railway footbridge put out of use

A second pedestrian railway footbridge has been put out of use in Llanbradach – just weeks after a Welsh Government minister promised a replacement for the first.

A railway maintenance vehicle struck the Grade II listed footbridge at Llanbradach station on Sunday morning – leading to a disruption of services.

Transport for Wales said while services have resumed, there maybe some disruption for travellers on the Rhymney line.

In a statement the railway operator said: “The passenger footbridge at Llanbradach station remains closed as a result of damage from a collision with a rail road vehicle on Sunday.

“Passengers needing to cross the railway are being diverted via Colliery Road on to Station Road, where existing traffic management and pedestrian signals are in place.

“Rail services resumed on Monday morning with speed restrictions in place. Passengers are advised to check the latest timetable information before travelling.

“We apologise for any inconvenience caused by this incident.”

A bridge too far for TfW?

The bridge is the second in Llanbradach to suffer damage due to a collision after the nearby Tynygraig footbridge was hit by a Caerphilly Skip Hire lorry in May 2020.

Almost two years on, it has still not been replaced – despite promises of a temporary bridge.

But answering a recent question from Senedd Member Hefin David,

But answering a Senedd question posed by Caerphilly MS Hefin David, the Deputy Minister for Climate Change Lee Waters promised a new bridge would be built.

He said: “The bridge definitely will be replaced and we’re hoping it’ll be in place a year from now, between late March and April 2023.”

In relation to the second being damaged, TfW said the bridge is being assessed for repairs.

Hefin David said he will continue to liaise with TfW on repairs to Grade II listed bridge.

Refurbishment turned down

A refurbishment of the historic footbridge was turned down by a planning an inspector in July 2019.

Network Rail, which then had responsibility for the bridge, had wanted to replace its timber decking with boards of glass reinforced plastic (GRP).

The wrought and cast-iron footbridge was listed in 2016 for its special architectural interest as a well-preserved railway bridge built in the late 19th century.