Final phase of main road bridge improvements in Stafford to start next week

Work is set to begin on the final phase of long-term improvements to Queensville rail bridge on the A34 in Stafford from Monday 26 January 2026, Staffordshire County Council has confirmed. The bridge carries one of the main road routes into the town and the latest works form the concluding stage of major investment to protect and enhance local transport infrastructure.

What’s included in the final phase

The council has already completed major strengthening and refurbishment works on the bridge, including deck strengthening, waterproofing, footway upgrades, resurfacing and improvements to the pedestrian stairs on either side.

The final phase, starting on 26 January, will focus on:

• Drainage cleansing and fencing improvements

• Increasing the height of the bridge walls to meet current safety standards

These works are expected to take place from Monday 26 January until Wednesday 4 February, generally between 9.30am and 3.30pm, with two-way traffic lights operating on the bridge while work is in progress.

Overnight works and railway closures

To allow the higher bridge walls to be installed safely, the council says there will be overnight rail closures on the following Saturdays:

• 24 January

• 7 February

• 21 February

• 7 March

• 21 March

On these dates, signals will operate from 9pm until 8.30am, but the road will remain open to traffic, pedestrians and cyclists at all times throughout the programme.

Investment and approach

The entire improvement package has been backed by a £900,000 investment from Staffordshire County Council into the long-term safety and resilience of this key route.

Patrick Allen, the county council’s cabinet support member for highways, said the project was essential for protecting a main road bridge on a key route into Stafford. He explained that the bulk of the work took place last year and that the timing of these final elements was dependent on Network Rail being able to grant the necessary line closures.

Allen also emphasised that the road has been kept open to traffic throughout, with signals used mainly during off-peak periods to reduce disruption during busiest travel times. He thanked local residents and road users in advance for their patience while the final phase is completed.

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