Work is under way to demolish a bridge first built during the Second World War.
Winterstoke Road Bridge in Weston-super-Mare, North Somerset, runs over the mainline railway which connects Bristol and the South West of England.
Work to demolish the structure, which has reached the end of its life, began late at night on Christmas Eve – to coincide with seasonal railway closures.
It is being replaced with an £11m bridge which is due to open in spring 2027.
If it was not replaced, North Somerset Council said the bridge would have had to be permanently closed due to its age and deteriorating condition.
Council leader Mike Bell said previously: “In recent years the bridge has enabled about 20,000 journeys each day, testament to the part it plays in our local transport network.
“It is a crucial route, which is why it’s important that the ageing bridge is replaced with one built to last for the next 120 years.”
Bridge demolition work is due to continue until 06:00 GMT on Saturday, with additional track works until 10 January.
Winterstoke Road Bridge was built during the Second World War to provide access to the Royal Air Force’s aeroplane factories.
Due to this, the Ministry of Defence owns the bridge and is paying for its replacement. North Somerset Council has committed a further £450,000 to the project.
