Engineers worked around the clock over the Easter weekend to remove the overhead wires before bringing down the old, worn-out and weight-restricted bridge using excavators, road-rail vehicles and a crane. Once work was completed, the overhead wires were reinstated to allow trains to run again first thing on Monday morning.

Rebuilding work has already begun, with piling set to begin shortly for the foundations needed to support the new structure. Work to install the new bridge deck will take place in two stages (7-10 June and 5-8 July).

Shields Road was closed to all vehicles between St Andrew’s Drive and Scotland Street from 28 August 2023.

Since then, Network Rail and Story Contracting has diverted utilities, removed the road surface and installed a temporary footbridge for pedestrians. The existing bridge has  now been demolished.

Working in conjunction with Glasgow City Council, completion of the project in August 2024 will see the long-standing weight restriction removed, with three lanes of traffic and a segregated cycle lane being built.

Laura Craig, Network Rail’s project manager for the bridge work, said: “We’re pleased that this significant milestone was completed successfully over the weekend.

“The project’s next phase has already begun with materials for the bridge rebuild being moved into position.

“The footbridge has now re-opened as we look ahead to creating a bridge that will better serve the community.”