NETWORK Rail has recently started work to reconstruct Whitewall footbridge.

The bridge – spanning the railway between Whitewall Road and Chapel Terrace – is due to be replaced as part of work to electrify the mainline.

To electrify the railway Network Rail needs to ensure that there is sufficient clearance for overhead line equipment under existing bridges.

As Whitewall Footbridge is too low, it is set to be demolished and replaced with a new and improved structure.

The majority of the work to reconstruct the bridge will be undertaken during the day time. However some night time work will be required on both weekdays and weekends, though Network Rail has said it will aim to keep disruption to a minimum and expects to complete the project in late 2015.

The new bridge will feature a change of design and will be of steel construction, painted "holly green" – matching the railway palisade fencing in the area – and will have solid parapets (side walls) at a height of more than 1.85metres, for safety reasons.

It will be relocated slightly, with the overall footprint of the bridge moving approximately 25 metres to the east. It will also have a different overall shape with both sets of steps facing westwards as well as improved gradients, landings and footpaths leading up to the structure.

A Network Rail spokesperson said: "Over the next five years, we will deliver the biggest investment in the Welsh railway since Victorian times.

"This will see us modernise and transform the railway in Wales through electrification, new signalling technology and upgraded stations.

"We are also working with our funders and partners to see how the railway can respond to future increases in demand and new journey patterns, and we welcome the opportunity to consider new proposals with our

funders."

A company spokesperson has also said about a campaign for a new station to be built at Magor: "With regard to a station at Magor, Network Rail is not funded to deliver station improvements or the build of new stations, and must receive funding for such enhancements. 

"Currently, no funding has been received to deliver a new station at Magor."