Swing Bridges – evidence needed of service failure

Recent hot weather has resulted in operational problems with the Reedham and Somerleyton swing bridges, so that they can’t be opened to permit large or tall vessels to pass.  The Broads Authority have been talking to Network Rail about the problems for several years and in August 2018 held a workshop attended by Network Rail and representatives from boat users and the BA.  Notes of this workshop can be downloaded here.

The bridges were both built in 1906 and are effectively at “end of life”. Network Rail have carried out engineering studies and consultations which recently concluded that replacement opening structures are the preferred long term maintenance option. However special funding is required, which Network Rail intend to apply for next March.

In order to support the case for the special funding for replacement bridges, please can you advise any delays you have experienced waiting for the Reedham and Somerleyton swing bridges to open to the river. Did the delay cause you to miss appointments, miss events, miss the tide, or incur other costs? All events considered, with summer 2018 most relevant.  Please send details of any problems as set out below to swingbridges@thegreenbook.org.uk

Your name
Date of delay
Time
Location
Vessel
Details of delay
Consequences of delay

Thank you.