Work to raise and renovate the Crawshaw Woods Bridge has now begun.

Transpennine Route Upgrade engineers have started the initial preparation for the bridge.

Constructed between 1830 and 1834, the Grade II-listed bridge is the earliest cast-iron railway bridge to remain in place over an operational railway.

The bridge overlooked trains steaming through the Industrial Revolution and was the main access to Barnbow Munitions Factory in the First World War.

The significant structure has had previous renovations in 1943 and again in 1999.

This renovation will see the removal of the cast iron girders, parapets, bridge deck and iron railings for off-site renovations.

The bridge will also be raised by around 1.5 metres to allow for the installation of new overhead line equipment, so that electric trains can pass through.

The work underway at the bridge is part of a Transport and Works Act Order, which was approved last year and will also include other work in the surrounding area receiving a Transpennine Route Upgrade.

“Crawshaw Woods Bridge’s Grade II listed status, and status as the world’s oldest cast-iron bridge over a live railway, means great care has gone into its renovation, with its removal planned for October this year.

“Following our public consultation in 2022, where we took on feedback from the community, we’re excited that preparation work has now started on what will ultimately improve journeys through West Yorkshire and across the Pennines on cleaner, greener services.

“The reinstatement of the bridge is expected in spring next year, when a structure that has seen such history will stand firm for the next generation of rail travel.”

Adam Sellers, Senior Sponsor for TRU