New figures from Network Rail have highlighted the scale of disruption caused when vehicles collide with railway bridges and Renfrewshire is in 2nd joint place at the top — an issue that continues to create major delays for passengers and costly repairs for the rail industry.
Between 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025, there were 1,666 recorded bridge strikes across Britain. That equates to one incident every five hours, with the resulting delays and cancellations costing the industry an estimated £12 million.
In Scotland, drivers struck railway bridges 158 times over the year. The data shows several clear hotspots.
Edinburgh topped the list with 12 strikes, closely followed by West Dunbartonshire and Renfrewshire, each with 11 incidents. Falkirk and Fife also recorded consistently high numbers, with 10 strikes apiece.
Network Rail said bridge strikes are “almost entirely avoidable” and urged drivers — particularly those operating high-sided vehicles — to be more aware of their vehicle height and local low-bridge signage. Each strike requires engineers to inspect the structure before trains can resume normal speeds, often bringing the rail network in the area to a standstill.
The organisation has continued its awareness campaigns, including the annual Wise Up, Size Up reminder aimed at haulage firms and delivery drivers, to reduce the number of incidents.
Paisley Photographs 