HL Deb 16 January 2003 vol 643 cc51-2WA
Lord Bradshaw

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What progress Network Rail are making in reducing delays to trains by bridge strikes. [HL1006]

Lord Macdonald of Tradeston

I understand that Network Rail and highway authorities work in association to try and reduce the incidence of road vehicles striking railway bridge structures. This includes the provision of signs indicating the location of bridges and their specifications, particularly height. Network Rail investigates all reported incidents as quickly as possible and is trialling new electronic systems to reduce the response time and the amount of delays to services. Its prime objective is to ensure that railway safety has not been compromised. Delays to trains may occur until necessary checks and any required remedial works have been carried out.