Several roads in East London on the Essex border are set to close this summer as a new bridge is constructed due to safety concerns after a man fell through it.
The new pedestrian footbridge at Kennedy Road is being built by contractors Taziker from late July. The previous bridge was removed following a serious safety incident in 2022 when a member of the public fell through it. Fortunately, they were not seriously injured.
Since then, there has been no direct pedestrian link between Harrow Road and Kennedy Road. The new structure will restore this connection. It will potentially causing delays for Barking residents and drivers. The closures will commence in July.
The new steel structure will feature stepped access, mirroring the layout of the original bridge. However, due to the physical constraints of the surrounding area, ramps have not been included in the design.
Construction is expected to continue throughout the summer, with completion anticipated this autumn, subject to progress on site. During the works, road closures will be in place on parts of Harrow Road and Kennedy Road.
Diversion routes for vehicles will be clearly signposted, and pedestrian access will be fully maintained, with a traffic marshal on site to safely support those travelling on foot.
Katie Frost, Network Rail Anglia’s route director, commented: “I know how difficult it’s been for people not being able to cross the railway at Kennedy Road, but it’s not long now before this vital local connection is restored.
“Our teams are working hard to prepare for construction, and we’re committed to delivering a safe and long term replacement footbridge with as little disruption as possible. Thank you to everyone for their patience and understanding during what I know has been a frustrating time.”
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