Network Rail has announced that it intends to replace the Victorian brick railway bridge on Down Farm Lane, in Headbourne Worthy, with a new concrete structure, involving a four to six week closure of Down Farm Lane, with a full replacement carried out on the May Bank Holiday.
The Worthys MP, Steve Brine, is due to meet with Network Rail shortly to get a briefing on proposals, and the operator is holding a drop-in day on Friday 20th February, between 3pm-8pm, at the St Mary's Church Rooms.
Steve Brine said: "On initial reading, it seems to me there are three issues we need to be aware of. First, the height will be increased from 10' to 13', and whilst this is below the 16' highway norm, it is felt that it could bring the risk of increased local traffic.
"Second, there is a strong concern around the potential design, which could take some charm away from the village and the approach from Down Farm Lane. Third, there is concern, of course, over the disruption to businesses and villagers when the work is taking place.
"I hope a number of residents will attend to ensure that the maximum number of local views are taken into account as this project is progressed. If you wish to feed any thoughts through me, do please get in touch."
