The Spa Valley Railway in Royal Tunbridge Wells has fully reopened for service as of Saturday, 18 April 2026, following the successful completion of major replacement work on the Broom Lane Bridge.
The project, which cost £500,000 to design and install, allows steam trains to travel the full route from Tunbridge Wells West to Eridge once again. The railway had been restricted to a limited service between Tunbridge Wells West and High Rocks from 23 February 2026 to 2 April 2026 while the essential bridge work took place.
The new structure replaces a Victorian-era steel bridge dating back to the 1890s. The original crossing had suffered from significant corrosion on the primary girder flanges, which had necessitated speed restrictions on the line starting in September 2025.
According to General Manager Jonnie Pay, the railway still has remaining costs to cover for the bridge project and has a two-year window to pay them off. Supporters have contributed to the effort through a fundraising appeal on JustGiving, which has raised approximately £106,785 toward the total expenses.
The replacement bridge was designed and constructed by Beaver Bridges. The project was also supported by East Sussex County Council and Balfour Beatty, who managed the necessary road closures to facilitate the construction work.
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