Goole Swing Bridge- Signalling Works

Goole Swing Bridge was commissioned in 1868 as a swing span structure over the River Ouse with the bridge support the Yorkshire and Humber Route between Goole and Saltmarshe.

The bridge consists of 5 fixed spans and a centrally supported swing span, with the swing span allowing river traffic to pass to and from Howden Docks and further upstream to Selby. The operation of the bridge (the signalling interface, jacking and slewing) is controlled from Goole Bridge Signal Box via a lever frame, a pedal, and a slewing lever/handle. The overall aim of the project is to renew the operating plant on Goole Swing Bridge with a modern, reliable equivalent with the signal box operating levers to be retained based on the historic significance although the manner in which they work was altered to allow a direct connection to the new control Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) system, rather than existing mechanical connection. During a planned two week blockade, RTIS were commended for their strong technical ability whilst also being highly praised for their efforts and contribution throughout the works. All signalling installation works were undertaken by in-house RTIS signalling teams who were managed by RTIS IRSE licensed signalling supervisors using the relevant installation control sheets and handover to test documentation. The RTIS Tester-in-Charge and Principles Tester appointed to the project had sole responsibility of controlling all works that fell within the NR/L2/SIG/30014 standard, along with issuing the final Entry Into Service documentation.