The A362 in Frome will be completely closed for seven weeks starting October 6, as Network Rail undertakes essential refurbishment work on the Portway railway bridge. This major infrastructure upgrade aims to enhance safety and extend the bridge’s lifespan.
Built in the 1970s, the Portway railway bridge carries train traffic over the busy A362. With trains now running faster and more frequently than when it was first constructed, Network Rail is reinforcing the bridge by installing additional steel supports beneath it. This upgrade will improve weight distribution and prevent future faults.
The comprehensive refurbishment includes grit-blasting the bridge, repainting it, and applying new anti-collision markings to ensure greater safety. The work will commence on Friday, September 19, and continue until Friday, November 28, with the road closure taking effect from 6am on October 6 until midnight on November 24.
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To manage traffic, a well-signposted diversion route will be in place, supported by traffic lights at junctions around Wallbridge, Great Western Street, and The Retreat. Importantly, pedestrian access under the bridge will remain open throughout the works.
Network Rail’s lead portfolio manager Vaheesan Maheswaran emphasized the importance of the project, stating, “This essential work will ensure trains continue to run safely and efficiently for decades. We appreciate the patience of road users and residents as we carry out these improvements, which will benefit passengers traveling from Frome far into the future.”
Morgan Sindall project manager Karl Butler added, “We’re proud to support Network Rail in delivering these vital upgrades to the Portway railway bridge. While we recognize the temporary inconvenience caused by the road closure, we are working closely with local partners to minimize disruption and complete the work safely and efficiently. These improvements will secure the reliability of the railway infrastructure, benefiting both passengers and the local community for years to come.”