NETWORK Rail has insisted the inconvenience facing motorists this winter when Stratton Green Bridge closes for four months will pay off with the arrival of quicker, cleaner, greener trains.

The bridge will close to vehicles from Monday, November 9, and not re-open again until the beginning of March next year. During this time Network Rail’s “orange army” will be reconstructing the road bridge to make it high enough to accommodate the new overhead lines that will power the new fleet of quieter, longer, electric trains.

At the end of last year Network Rail carried out preparatory work on the bridge where they identified a number of utility cables that were buried deep beneath the structure. Work is currently taking place to divert these utility services, while keeping the road open for motorists.

Andrew Haynes, Network Rail’s project director for the west of England, said: “We know the closure of this bridge last year inconvenienced residents, which is why we reassessed our work programme to ensure that as much of the work as possible is carried out whilst maintaining access.

“We are now nearing the point in the project where the actual reconstruction needs to take place and so we are continuing to work closely with Swindon Borough Council to minimise disruption and complete the work in as short a timescale as possible.

“This essential work will pave the way for electrification and the benefits this will bring for local residents. These benefits include faster trains with more seats and more legroom, and less noise and pollution for those who live close to the railway line.”

The bridge itself is in fact made up of two sections, with the newer, western side already wide enough to accommodate the new pylons. However, the eastern side is of an earlier design with the more traditional railway arches which are too low for the pylons. Network Rail has said in this case it is not possible to lower the stretch of track as has been done elsewhere along the line.

During the closure the bridge will still be accessible to pedestrians and cyclists. However there will be a complete closure for 52 hours from Christmas Eve when the work will be carried out on the bridge itself during the shut-down of the railway.

During the closure drivers will be diverted along Drakes Way, Ocotal Way, Great Western Road roundabout, Cirencester Way, Gipsy Lane and Bridge End Road.

The electrification of the Great Western Mainline will allow the arrival of new high-speed Hitachi trains which train operator Great Western Railway says will transform travel in the region by offering more seats and cutting journey times.