Engineers are starting preparations on site one year before a major railway bridge is replaced in Cumbria.
The 71-year-old bridge, which takes trains over the M6 between the North of England and Scotland, has reached the end of its life, and needs to be replaced. Currently, only one train at a time is allowed on the bridge, which causes delays for passengers and freight services.
So workers can carry out the work safely, from January 2025 until the end of the project in 2026, there will be traffic management in place on the M6, starting approximately three miles south of Junction 40.
To complete the work, engineers need to dismantle the old bridge and take it away on the M6. The new bridge materials will be delivered by road and built on site.
This week, the team arrived on site to prepare a compound for the work. National Highways is working on behalf of Network Rail to build an access road to the work site.
Olivia Boland, Network Rail sponsor, said: “We are rebuilding Clifton bridge over the M6 to keep rail passengers and motorway users safe for years to come. This project is essential as the bridge has reached the end of its life.
“The main work, which involves rail and road closures, is not happening until January 2026. However, people living in the Clifton area or driving past might notice the start of our construction activities.
“We’re working with National Highways to make sure we can carry out our work as safely as possible with as little inconvenience to local people and the travelling public. Thank you for your patience during this critical work.”
In January 2026, the railway will be closed for two weeks so the bridge can be demolished and replaced over two weekends. Network Rail is working with train operators to plan what alternative transport options will be available during this time.
The work will ensure safe and reliable journeys for passengers and freight over this vital 135-metre-long structure for years to come.
Image credit: HS2
