Project profile: Whaddon Bridge
We’re seeking ministerial approval to remove this fractured bridge and create a new crossroad to maintain the active travel route.
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Location: Alderbury, Wiltshire, England
Status: Seeking ministerial approval for the removal of the bridge and the creation of a crossroads with the right-of-way and the old track-bed
History
The bridge dates to the third phase of railway construction, which was from the 1850s-1970s. This mid-Victorian phase was when railways became a key development in land communication, taking over from carts, carriages, gigs, and canals.
The bridge is located on the former Salisbury and Dorset Junction Railway, which was built to connect West Moors junction (on the Southampton and Dorchester line) to Alderbury junction (near Salisbury, on the London and South Western Railway).
From the 1930s, revenue from the line had dwindled. Due to its location, in a primarily rural locality, the line closed as part of the Beeching cuts in 1964.
About the structure
It is a single-span arch bridge of standardised design, which carries a right of way over the former line.
The structure is in a poor condition with significant fractures to three of the four wingwalls. The movement is cyclical in nature but has been gradually getting worse over time.
What is the project?
Due to its poor condition, it was brought to our Stakeholder Advisory Forum in 2024 to discuss the options for its future, including repairing, replacing and demolishing to form a new crossroad to maintain the right of way and improve linkages with the old track bed.
What stage is it at?
Following discussion at our Stakeholder Advisory Forum in November 2024, we have considered comments from our delegates and are now seeking ministerial approval on removing the bridge and creating a new crossroad that maintains the active travel route.
