Network Rail is preparing to refurbish Portway railway bridge in Frome, with the project requiring the closure of a key road in the Somerset town for seven weeks.

The bridge, built in the 1970s, carries the railway over the A362 and is undergoing essential maintenance to prevent future faults. As part of the work, engineers will install additional steel on the underside of the structure to better distribute the weight of modern trains, which are faster and more frequent than when the bridge first opened. The programme also includes grit-blasting, repainting, and the addition of new anti-collision markings.

Work will begin on Friday 19 September and run until Friday 28 November. The A362 will be closed to traffic from 6am on Monday 6 October until midnight on Monday 24 November, with a diversion route clearly signposted. Traffic lights will also be in place to help manage nearby junctions at Wallbridge, Great Western Street and The Retreat. Pedestrian access beneath the bridge will remain open throughout.

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Network Rail lead portfolio manager Vaheesan Maheswaran said: "We need to complete this essential work to make sure trains can continue to run safely and efficiently for decades to come.

"I'd like to thank road users and local residents for their patience in advance as we carry out this work which will benefit passengers travelling from Frome long into the future."

Karl Butler, project manager at Morgan Sindall, which is supporting the scheme, added: "We're proud to be supporting Network Rail in delivering these essential works to the Portway railway bridge in Frome. While we understand the road closure may cause temporary disruption, we’re working closely with local partners to minimise impact and ensure the project is completed safely and efficiently.

"The improvements being made will help secure the long-term reliability of the railway infrastructure, benefiting passengers and the wider community for years to come."