Revamp for Welsh town’s Victorian railway bridge

A RAILWAY footbridge in Carmarthenshire which dates from the Victorian era is to be removed and refurbished.

Network Rail said it will spend £250,000 renovating the eye-catching structure at Pembrey and Burry Port station in a Cardiff workshop before replacing it.

A spokesman said the plan was to detach it on February 29 and complete the work by the summer.

The 137-year-old bridge will be strengthened, redecorated and have its deck replaced.

Photos and video: Peter A Tully

Passengers must use the nearby pedestrian road bridge, which gives access to the station platforms, while the work is being carried out.

The revamp is a relief for county councillors John James and Amanda Fox, who represent Burry Port and want to retain the town’s heritage.
In a statement they said: “We’ve been liaising with the relevant agencies regarding the long-term future of the railway station footbridge and have had a commitment that a full maintenance programme has been agreed.”

According to the duo, the footbridge’s future was in jeopardy six years ago, leading to a petition and campaigning by Llanelli MP Nia Griffith.
This led to Network Rail upgrading lighting on the bridge.

Cllr James said the new £250,000 project would be welcomed by residents and passengers.

“This bridge means so much to all of us and to have this guarantee of refurbishment is a terrific boost for our town,” he said.
“We wish to thank everyone involved from the initial decision-making process through to the carrying out of the work.”