The existing Victorian structure has become unsafe and is subject to weekly inspections by engineers. As a result, Network Rail are proposing to replace the bridge and want to do the work in April/May this year.
Winchester MP Steve Brine met with Network Rail officials at the event having written to all constituents in the area to advise them of the plans and the drop-in session.
He says; "I can see the critical importance of replacing the bridge which has taken a real hammering in recent years as the amount of heavy freight on the railway has increased and a series of bridge strikes have weakened its structure. If we do nothing safety could be compromised and a speed restriction would have to be imposed on this stretch of what is one of the busiest railway lines in Europe.
"Network Rail have responded well to initial comments from the parish council and agreed this month to clad the new concrete structure with a red brick finish. However, the major issue outstanding is the design of the new bridge which raises the height by some two and-a-half feet."
A number of constituents have contacted Mr Brine to express their fear that a higher squared off bridge will allow larger lorries and trucks through, increasing heavy traffic through into the Worthies.
Steve adds; "I absolutely share these concerns and made that clear to Network Rail representatives at today's drop-in event. I am in discussion with the landowner adjacent to the bridge, with Hampshire County Council and with Network Rail's project manager to see how we can get vital work done while protecting the current 10' height restriction.
"I have also discussed the matter with the Rail Minister Claire Perry MP and all are optimistic we can find a sensible solution that replaces the bridge while protecting my constituents from heavy through traffic."
Steve added that he would continue to update constituents when new information was available.
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