Train passengers face delays and cancellations after lorry strikes railway bridge over the A337 Southampton Road in Lymington
A LORRY striking a railway bridge over a main road in Lymington has caused "significant" damage to its structure and the track above. Trains running between Lymington Pier and Brockenhurst stations have been suspended until further notice as a result of the collision, which happened around 8.30am on the A337 Southampton Road. South Western Railway (SWR) has said disruption is expected to continue until the end of the day.
Network Rail shared images showing large sections of the bridge's brick structure having been dislodged by the impact, as well as the track shifting to one side.
The post said: "We are very sorry to passengers wishing to travel between Brockenhurst and Lymington. "The bridge strike has caused significant damage to the railway, moving the tracks as well as damaging the structure of the bridge." An SWR spokesperson said: "We have been informed that a road vehicle has struck a bridge between Brockenhurst and Lymington Town.
"Staff are on site examining the bridge. As a result, services running between Brockenhurst and Lymington Pier will be suspended until further notice."
SWR tickets are currently being accepted on the Bluestar route 6 bus between Brockenhurst and Lymington Town. A rail replacement bus was also requested to shuttle between Brockenhurst and Lymington Pier stations, calling at Lymington Town.
This was expected to have been in place from Brockenhurst around 11.30am.
Passengers preferring to continue their journey on local buses can check traveline.info but SWR tickets are not valid on local buses unless specified. The spokesperson continued: "For further information or onward travel advice please speak to a member of staff or use a station help point.
"We are very sorry for any delay that this may cause to your journey." Police closed off the stretch of road after responding to the collision, which left the lorry lodged underneath the bridge.
Despite Network Rail's online post, a Hampshire force spokesperson told the A&T the road was set to have been reopened this afternoon after a structural engineer confirmed the bridge's stability after the lorry's removal. "Thankfully, no injuries were reported as a result of the incident," the force spokesperson added. Those delayed by the disruption can view SWR's compensation policy online at southwesternrailway.com/contact-and-help/delay-repay
Comments about the experience travelling today can be made by calling 0345 6000 650, or visit southwesternrailway.com/contact-and-help/contact-us for other ways to get in touch.