NETWORK Rail is today hosting the first of a series of public meetings to discuss the expected disruption due to electrification work on the main line through Gwent.

In order to accommodate the overhead lines which will power the electric trains, some road, foot and rail bridges that span the mainline will need to be raised, either by amending the existing structure or demolishing the existing bridge and building something new in its place.

A number of bridges will need modification in the Newport area, including Somerton Road, Chepstow Road, Bridge Street, Tunnel Terrace Footbridge, Cardiff Road, Maesglas Road, Cuckoo Bridge, Maerdy Farm Road and Hawse Lane in Coedkernew, Summerway Road, and Heol Las.

Network Rail said disruption during modification work will be “unavoidable”, adding there will have to be some temporary road and footpath closures.

As part of the project, the company will also clear overgrown vegetation running outside the rail.

Work to some of the bridges is due to begin in Newport this summer, but Network Rail says the bulk of the work will be undertaken in late 2015 and 2016.

Network Rail is encouraging residents to attend “drop-in” events in the area, if they have any questions.

The first of which will be held at St Patricks Church on Cromwell Road, Somerton, today between 2pm and 8pm.