Station Road, Braughing

History

Braughing Station was a stop along the old Buntingford to St Marys branch line and opened in 1863. Trains operated on the line in the 1920s through to Liverpool Street. The bridge carries traffic along Station Road through the village of Braughing just metres away from the old station. 

The line and the adjacent station were closed as part of the Beeching cuts in 1964. The station has been restored and classic signage is still in place while it is now a private property. 

About the structure

The bridge currently carries traffic in both directions along Station Road. 

However, the south-east beam at the end of the bridge has failed the relevant structural assessments and is currently rated at 0-tonne load capacity, requiring urgent attention.

Other beams and structural elements of the bridge are currently assessed as serviceable. While not in optimal condition, they are performing adequately and do not present an immediate safety concern. 

What is the project?

Single-way traffic lights and a speed limit will be installed on the bridge in February. There is no viable alternative to this measure at the present time. Traffic must be prevented from loading the failed beam.

The permanent solution will be presented to National Highways Stakeholders Advisory Forum, and thereafter planning permission and detailed design will proceed. After the works are tendered, site works are thought likely to begin in April/May 2027.

What stage is it at?

The temporary traffic lights are expected to remain in place for approximately 18 months to three years. This timescale reflects the necessary processes the Historical Railways Estates team must undertake, including technical and ecological assessments, discussions, approvals, planning permission, and the design and delivery of the construction works.