Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, with reference to the bridge in Eccles Heath, Norfolk, for what reason that bridge was closed for two years prior to repair works commencing; and what steps his Department is taking to help ensure repair works on transport infrastructure is carried out in a timely manner.

Any closure to any part of the transport network should seek to minimise impacts on all users, but safety should always be the paramount consideration.

In relation to the specific bridge at Eccles Heath in Norfolk, I understand Network Rail took the operational decision to restrict access for safety reasons, and that upon detailed investigation, required significantly more work than initially anticipated.

My officials have today written to the Anglia Route Director at Network Rail, asking them to provide details of the closure and the lessons learnt – I will ensure this is shared with the Hon Member, as well as the Member for South West Norfolk.