Brighton Road bridge near Coulsdon South station

We’re installing protection barriers to the bridge that carries the Brighton Main Line over Brighton Road (A237) to protect the bridge and the railway from vehicle collisions. 

Project timeline

Work began on 1 September 2025 and the final sections of the work will take place over the summer of 2026.

What work is taking place?

The Brighton Road bridge, which carries the Brighton Main Line over the A237, has been hit multiple times by large vehicles. This has caused delays and disruption to train services.

To tackle this, we are installing specially designed steel protection beams and a support structure. This will absorb vehicle impacts and protect the bridge structure.

When is the work taking place and how will it affect me?

The collision beams have been installed but to complete the final stages, we require 4 midweek overnight closures from Monday 17 August until Friday 21 August. These works will require a temporary closure of a small section of the car park to store our equipment over those 4 days.

A full road closure will also be in place each night from 21:30 to 05:30 the following morning from Monday 17 August to Friday 21 August.

Access to the station one way system and pedestrian access to the station will be maintained throughout the work and normal train services will run to and from Coulsdon South.

Road closures and station access

At times, traffic management and a road closure will be in place on Brighton Road to facilitate the works.

The station remains open with normal train services. Step-free access is unaffected via southern access road/south side of the station.

Car park closure 

Further overnight works to complete final stages of the work will require a temporary closure of a small section of the car park to store our equipment from 21:30 Monday 17 August until 05:30 Friday 21 August.

Brighton Road closures  

• From 21:30 Monday 17 August to 05:30 Friday 21 August we need overnight road closures. Brighton Road will be fully closed with a signed diversion route in place. Pedestrian access under the bridge will not be available during these overnight closures. There will be a signed diversion route with steps to alternative routes. Those with mobility issues and unable to use steps will be escorted by marshals through the site when safe to do so.

We are working closely with the local authority, Southern and Thameslink, and our contractors to minimise disruption and ensure safe access for all road users and pedestrians. Access to Coulsdon South station will be maintained throughout.

Why is the work needed?

Bridge strikes are a major cause of train delays and infrastructure damage. Despite efforts like improved signage and driver education, the Brighton Road bridge continues to be hit. Installing protection beams is a proven solution that will safeguard the bridge, reduce delays, and improve reliability for thousands of daily passengers.

Get in touch

If you have any questions, please visit our contact us page or telephone our 24-Hour National Helpline on 03457 11 41 41 quoting Brighton Road Bridge.