A child has been struck by falling bricks in a tunnel near a school in Wiltshire.
Network Rail deployed staff to the scene at Ivy Lane railway bridge, between Spanbourn Avenue and Bridge Centre Roundabout in Chippenham, on Tuesday (26 March).
They discovered that some of the brickwork was crumbling away, and made urgent repairs to ensure others don’t become the victim of falling masonry.
The child, whose age and gender has not been revealed, is said to have suffered head injuries in the incident. Though it’s not yet clear how serious the injuries were.
“We were very sorry to hear of the accident at Ivy Lane bridge and send our best wishes to the family”, a spokesperson for the railway management firm said.
Adding: “We immediately sent a team to inspect the bridge and found some minor crumbling of the brickwork which was repaired within 24 hours.”
Ivy Lane Primary School, which is situated just metres from the bridge, sent out an urgent message to parents on Wednesday (27 March) – warning them about the situation.
It said: “I am writing to inform you of an incident that occurred in the railway tunnel yesterday afternoon, whereby a section of brick fell on a child’s head.
“This has understandably caused concern with regards the structure and safety of the tunnel, which clearly needs addressing.
“The council were informed, have visited the site and are due to complete an investigation report which they will send to Network Rail as a matter of urgency.
“I would strongly advise all our parents/carers to be aware that walking through the tunnel is at your own risk and you may want to consider another route.”
Councillor Nick Holder, Cabinet Member for Highways at Wiltshire Council, said, “We are aware of an incident in Chippenham where a child was struck by falling masonry from a bridge, our thoughts are with the child and we hope they make a full and fast recovery.
“The bridge is owned and maintained by Network Rail, and we are advised that it has been inspected and that there is no further immediate danger at this time.”
- We’d like to talk to the parents of the injured child about the incident. Can you put us in touch? Contact the news team on 07794 802 940.
