The bridge was struck 33 times in the year ending March 2022, amounting to £10,526 in unnecessary train delay and cancellation costs.
The other big hitters include Lower Downs Road in Wimbledon (struck 18 times) and Harlaxton Road bridge in Lincolnshire (struck 17 times).
The latest figures come as Network Rail launches a new animation as part of its ‘Wise Up, Size Up’ campaign, reminding lorry drivers and haulage operators know the height of their vehicles and choose suitable routes before they head out on journeys. The retro-inspired cartoon centres on three high-sided vehicles navigating a low bridge in increasingly wacky ways, from pole-vaulting over it, to tunnelling underneath it. The animation is designed to warn HGV drivers that life is not like the cartoons and to take a moment to think before taking a risk when approaching low bridges.
Network Rail works with a number of railway industry partners to tackle bridge strikes, including Highways England, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency and hauliers.
Sir Peter Hendy CBE, chair of Network Rail, said: “Bridge bashers cause serious safety issues on the transport network for both road and rail users. Every incident can delay tens of thousands of passengers while we inspect the bridge and repair any damage – creating a huge cost from public funds.
“During this very busy time of year for deliveries, we urge operators and drivers to properly plan their routes, know the height of their vehicles and be vigilant for road signs showing the height of bridges. We will report those who don’t to the Traffic Commissioners, and they risk losing their licenses and livelihoods. Network Rail always looks to recover the entire repair and delay costs from the driver and the operator.”