Rochdale rail bridge 'crucial' to UK economy set to be rebuilt

Around 3000 freight services travel over the 42 meter-long (137 ft) bridge

A railway bridge described as a "crucial" transport link for the UK's economy is set to be replaced, causing travel disruption later this year.

Network Rail will spend more than £20m rebuilding the Castleton bridge which straddles the M62 in Rochdale.

A section of the motorway will shut for two weekends in September for the work.

David Hunter, of Network Rail, said the bridge was a key freight route across the Pennines, linking the west and east of the country.

The body, which manages most of the UK's national rail infrastructure, estimates about six per cent of the UK's energy supply relies on the bridge for transportation.

This is because freight trains which run over the tracks carry biomass material to and from Drax power station in Selby.

The bridge links the UK's rail network to Drax Power Station in North Yorkshire

Rail links between Manchester Victoria and Rochdale will be shut between 6 to 24 September while the 2,000 tonne bridge is dismantled.

A section of the M62 between J18 and J20 will fully close shut between 6 and 9 September, and again between 20 and 23 September while the bridge is replaced.

Outside of these times the motorway will be cut to three lanes, with nightly closures for work to the base of the bridge.

Amy Williams of National Highways said the agencies "appreciated the understanding of passengers and motorists" and urged them to check their travel plans for September 2024.

Why not follow BBC Manchester on Facebook, X and Instagram? You can also send story ideas to [e-mail]