Road closed as bridge installed

Part of the A1 in Lincolnshire was closed overnight as a new road bridge was lifted into place.

The road was closed to through traffic in both directions between the A607 Harlaxton Road and the A606 junction at Stamford from 1800 BST.

Using a special vehicle, the 30m (98ft) long bridge decks, which weigh 650 tonnes, was driven at walking pace along the A1 and lowered into place.

The road was reopened at about midday, officials confirmed.

'Unusual construction'

Highways Agency project leader said the work was a real milestone for the Peterborough to Blyth Junction Improvement Scheme.

"This approach to the construction of the bridges is particularly unusual as the more common method involves building the bridge supports, lifting pre-cast beams into place then constructing the deck on top.

"By building the deck off-site, we have been able to construct both elements of the bridge in parallel, shortening the length of the construction period and minimising delays for road users."

Drivers have been advised to allow more time for their journeys while the closure is in place.

It is hoped the bridge will be open to traffic in by the end of the summer.

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