Network Rail has revealed a list of Britain’s most-bashed bridges.
In addition, the organisation is calling on truck drivers to follow its ‘Wise Up, Size Up’ campaign.
Surprisingly, despite fewer trains and passengers due to Covid-19, bridge strikes cost Network Rail more than £5.5 million.
Specifically, the costs were put down to delay and cancellation fees for passengers.
Meanwhile, it was reported that more than 1,600 bridges were hit over the year.
The most bashed was Coddenham Road bridge in Suffolk, which was struck 19 times.
As a result, Network Rail has relaunched its campaign, in anticipation of a spike in incidents over Black Friday and the Christmas period.
Furthermore, it is concerned that the influx of newly qualified lorry drivers on Britain’s roads could have an impact.
“Bridge strikes cause unnecessary delays,” said Sir Peter Hendy CBE, chair of Network Rail.
In addition, he added there are costs and safety issues for road and rail users.
“To compound matters, they drain public funds that should be used on upgrading and improving our network.
“In recent years, we’ve done a lot of work with partners to tackle the problem,” added Sir Peter.
“And, whilst it’s encouraging to see numbers on the decline, there’s a lot more to be done.”
Over the next four weeks, reminders to ‘Wise Up, Size Up’ will feature on posters at motorway service stations across Britain.
Specifically, these will urge drivers to check the size of their vehicles and their routes before setting off.
At the same time, Network Rail is pushing its ‘4Es’ initiative.
The initiative looks at education, engineering, enablement and enforcement.
It aims to ensure haulage companies and their drivers are provided with the knowledge and tools needed to avoid striking bridges.
Also, Network Rail has bridge strike ‘champions’ covering routes across Britain.
