The Station Road Bridge near the former Southfleet Station, Kent, carries the B262 road over the disused Gravesend West Branch railway line. Constructed in the 1880s, the bridge was part of a railway line that played a key role in connecting river traffic from Southend and Clacton with Gravesend Pier. The line remained in use for passenger services until 1953, and freight continued until 1976, notably to Northfleet Cement Works.
The bridge, a two-span structure with six longitudinal girders, has been classified in “poor” condition. Over the years, the cutting beneath the bridge has been partially infilled, and its wingwalls buried. This has complicated inspection and maintenance. Despite having been assessed in 2007 with a load capacity of 7.5 tonnes, the bridge has no current weight restriction. Discussions have taken place to add safety measures such as a Trief kerb, but these would not sufficiently increase the load-bearing capacity.
As the bridge is critical for local road traffic, particularly with no weight restriction, Kent County Council, as the Highway Authority, has opted for a long-term solution: infill of the bridge. This will provide structural support and prevent future issues without restricting the road’s use. Dartford Borough Council approved this plan on 27 August 2024, with work scheduled to start in January 2025 and be completed by spring of that year.
This project will involve infilling the space below the bridge, addressing safety concerns, and maintaining road access in the area.
Brick jack arches and steel girders 2005
East abutment showing vegetation growth beneath bridge 2005
West face of central brick pier 2005
East face of central brick pier 2005
View from B262 road over the bridge looking south 2022
Photos and information owned by National Highways
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