Construction firm Graham has installed a new pedestrian and cycle bridge as part of the development of Marsh Barton railway station.

The installation of the 16-metre span structure over the railway line is a major milestone in the project.

Graham has been working closely with Network Rail and GWR to time the bridge lift to coincide with a pre-planned weekend closure of the line.

Work over the coming months will now focus on the approaches to the bridge, as well as access and emergency escape ramps, platform development and mechanical and electrical elements.

The new bridge, which is expected to open to the public in the autumn, will form an essential part of the new station.

-- Advertisement --

It will provide a separate route for pedestrians and cyclists, away from traffic on the narrow Clapperbrook Lane, as well as enhancing walking and cycling connections between Alphington, Marsh Barton and the Riverside Valley Park.

Councillor Andrea Davis, County Council Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Environment and Transport, said: "We've been working in collaboration with Network Rail and GWR to take advantage of planned weekend closures and minimise disruption. This new bridge will create a safer, traffic free route for cyclists and pedestrians and will be a major asset in accessing the station."

Karl Tucker, Chair of the Heart of the South West LEP, said: "It is exciting to see the latest step in the development of the new railway station at Marsh Barton. As well as being a route for pedestrians and cyclists to access the station, the new bridge offers a safer route for people walking and cycling in the area. The station will offer a more environmentally-friendly mode of transport to commuters and is a vital part of unlocking development to the south and west of Exeter. We are delighted to be supporting the station through our Growth Deal funding and look forward to the opening of the pedestrian bridge later this year."