DRIVERS in Shrivenham will have use of a new and improved route after work on a new railway bridge was completed last week.

The bridge, which crosses over the railway on Station Road, was opened on Friday after work by Network Rail engineers was completed on time.

The project was part of a £40bn plan to upgrade the rail network, with the Great Western Electrification element at its core.

The design of the new bridge will allow for additional space for the overhead lines required to power the new fleet of trains being brought into service.

Network Rail hopes the more advanced rolling stock will provide better reliability for passengers, they will be able to carry more people, move faster along the route and in a more environmentally friendly way.

Unlike work in neighbouring Swindon, the installation of the new bridge in Shrivenham was carried out alongside the existing bridge, which remained opened to motorists and pedestrians throughout in an effort to avoid congestion problems.

Robbie Burns, Network Rail’s regional director of infrastructure projects, said: “While every effort was made to minimise disruption for residents and local businesses, I would like to thank them for their patience and understanding while we completed the building of the new bridge.

“The team worked hard to ensure the construction was completed in as short a timeframe as possible and that it was finished on time.

“Now the new bridge has opened, residents and businesses in Shrivenham are a step closer to the benefits that electrifying the railway and running new electric trains will bring.

“These benefits include faster trains with more seats and more leg room, and less noise and cleaner air for those who live close to the railway.

“Faster journeys and the ability to move more people by train will also help to promote economic growth in the south west.”

Shrivenham resident, Alec Chambers, who was just four when the original bridge was constructed, was given the honour of being the first person to drive over the new bridge.

Alec said: “I was really excited to be part of the opening.

“I remember seeing the old bridge put in, I’m sure there aren’t too many people to have witnessed the building of these two bridges.

“I’m really looking forward to electrification of the Great Western Main Line and to enjoying the benefits of faster, quieter trains.”

Work on the electrification of the rest of the Great Western line will continue through until 2019 as part of the wider upgrade work across the whole network.

The line, which links the crucial economic hubs of London, Oxford, Swindon, Bristol and Cardiff, has struggled to deal with passenger demand in recent years.

Passengers will be hoping that when the work is completed, they will be able to travel in greater comfort, without the delays and overcrowding they have become accustomed to.