Two communities in East London are now connected for the first time since 2022, after Network Rail completed the replacement of a pedestrian footbridge at Kennedy Road in Barking.

The original footbridge was closed in 2022 after a serious incident involving a member of the public who fell through it, but fortunately, he was not seriously injured.

The closure of the footbridge severed a direct pedestrian link between Harrow Road and Kennedy Road, which has now been reinstated with the construction of the new footbridge.

The new bridge, delivered by Network Rail’s contractor Taziker, is constructed of steel. It is similar in layout to the original bridge, with sa tepped access, but because of the confines of the surrounding area, there was no space to include access ramps in the design.

Throughout the work, Network Rail has been aware of the difficulty encountered by people being unable to use the footbridge at Kennedy Road to cross the railway.

Network Rail worked hard to ensure as little disruption as possible during the planning, design, and installation of the replacement footbridge, and is satisfied that residents can use the bridge with confidence. It also thanked everyone for their patience and understanding during what must have been a frustrating time.

Barking is served by c2c trains between Fenchurch Street/Liverpool Street and Shoeburyness, and London Overground services on the Suffragette Line between Gospel Oak and Barking Riverside.

“The installation and upgrading of the new footbridge provides not just a crossing, but an essential access link between a busy residential area of the borough. It will significantly support and encourage safe and accessible active travel for our residents in the area to easily reach local amenities such as our parks, shops, church, schools, public transport and medical centres. From the outset of the works, Network Rail has worked tirelessly to support resident engagement. On behalf of the community, we are all delighted to see this bridge open again.”

Cllr Alison Cormack, London Borough of Barking & Dagenham councillor for Gascoigne Ward