Work to deliver the new Kirk Hill bridge in Sutton Bonington, Nottinghamshire, has continued with 14,000 bricks being installed on the new structure.

The project will provide clearance for larger gauge freight trains – allowing more goods to move by rail – as well as improving rail maintenance access “to support progress towards removing a long standing speed restriction and improving reliability”, said a statement from Network Rail.

In addition, the new structure offers sufficient clearance for electric or bi-mode trains, should Midland Main Line electrification be restarted in the future.

The project, which began in September 2025, is being carried out by Network Rail and lead contractor AmcoGiffen.

The work so far has included:

“By carrying out critical works overnight, at weekends and over Christmas, engineers have been able to keep the railway open for passengers,” said Network Rail.

Network Rail lead portfolio manager Katie Oliver said: “We’ve made excellent progress on the Kirk Hill bridge upgrade, safely demolishing the old structure and rebuilding the new bridge while keeping disruption to passengers and the railway to a minimum.”

The work still to be carried out includes reinstalling utility services into the new bridge deck and carrying out highway and drainage works.

Road closures remain on track to be lifted as planned in late July, ahead of overall project completion in September.

Like what you've read? To receive New Civil Engineer's daily and weekly newsletters click here.