New Avon River bridge up and running

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Trains are now travelling at higher speeds over the new Avon River rail bridge in Stratford, three months ahead of schedule.

Crews worked around the clock during a nine-day construction blitz to connect the new bridge to the rail line, undertaking critical track and signalling works and upgrading the nearby McAlister Street level crossing.

Trains will be able to travel at up to 90km/h on the new structure, a massive improvement on the 10km/h limit on the old bridge.

Stratford locals gathered to witness the last passenger trains travel over the historic bridge on Friday 7 November, more than 130 years since the first train crossed the river in 1888.

The historic bridge will remain in place as a landmark for the town of Stratford and the region’s history.

Artist Ray Thomas is also painting a mural on the side of the new bridge which will face Apex Park.The project’s improvements to Apex Park, including a new nature-based playground and BMX/pump track, will continue into early 2021.

Find out more about the Avon River rail bridge.

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