AN MP has demanded answers over delayed bridge works that are causing traffic havoc.

AN MP has demanded answers over delayed bridge works that are causing traffic havoc.

The recent report by the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) into delays of delivering projects by Network Rail and complaints from constituents prompted Fiona Mactaggart, Slough MP, to write to Mark Carne, Network Rail boss, demanding answers.

Stoke Poges Lane Bridge in Slough, has been closed to traffic since November 2014, in order to complete necessary work for Crossrail to enable new, more reliable, smoother and quieter trains, and was due to be completed in April.

However Network Rail, who is delivering the project, did not meet that date and it is not known when the bridge will be open again.

The Rt Hon Ms Mactaggart said: “This extended closure has caused problems to residents travelling to work, to children going to school and to businesses whose trade has been affected. The length of closure is unacceptable.

“A recent Office of Rail and Road report into Network Rail shows how common delay and missed targets are on this sort of project. The bridge is just the latest example of delay.” In response, a spokesman for Network Rail explained that the delays have been caused by the need to replace signalling equipment dating back to the 1960s without disrupting rail services.

He said: “We understand the frustration of local people and are sorry for the delay in re-opening the bridge. We are working hard to get the work done and aim to open the bridge by the time the schools go back after the summer holidays.”