Work on the new Kirk Hill bridge at Sutton Bonington is advancing well, with 14,000 bricks now installed in the new parapet walls on the structure.

The scheme will create the clearance needed for larger‑gauge freight trains, enabling more goods to move by rail, and improve maintenance access to help lift a long‑standing speed restriction and enhance reliability. The bridge also provides sufficient headroom for electric or bi‑mode trains, should Midland Main Line electrification resume in future.

Launched in September 2025, the project is being delivered by Network Rail with lead contractor AmcoGiffen. So far, the team has installed a temporary utility bridge to safely carry gas, electricity, water and broadband services during demolition and reconstruction; demolished the old bridge during planned Christmas possessions; fitted new bridge components over three overnight weekend shifts; and built new parapet walls using high‑strength concrete and 14,000 bricks to meet modern safety standards.

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By scheduling critical activity overnight, at weekends and over the Christmas period, engineers have kept the railway open for passengers throughout.

Remaining tasks include reconnecting utility services into the new bridge deck and completing associated highway and drainage works. Road closures are due to be lifted in late July, with full project completion on course for September.

Katie Oliver, Network Rail lead portfolio manager, said: "We've made excellent progress on the Kirk Hill bridge upgrade, safely demolishing the old structure and rebuilding the new bridge while keeping disruption to passengers and the railway to a minimum.

"We're sorry to local residents for the disruption, and we're grateful for their continued patience as we head towards completing the project, with the upgraded Kirk Hill bridge delivering long-term benefits for both passengers and freight, while also preparing the route for potential future electrification."