Landmark Stockport roundabout bridge faces demolition. The project cost £20m,causing year-long disruptions.
The bridge was built in 1958, and Network Rail says it is at the end of its life. The project starts on March 31st, with the roundabout and roads closing for a year. Locals should expect travel problems.
A temporary bridge helped move utility lines in preparation. Preparations start when the road closes. The railway closes for 21 days in August, from August 2nd to August 23rd, to demolish and replace the bridge.
The bridge is 58 meters wide and has about 200 concrete beams. Power lines will be removed, and the tracks will be protected from debris. Cranes will remove the old bridge beams.
They will load the beams onto trucks. The remainders of the bridge will face demolition, and new bridge beams will arrive by truck. Cranes will install these beams, after which concrete will be poured. Finally, they lay tarmac.
A new mural will honor the roundabout and will resemble the current mural design. The removed safety matting for overhead lines have been placed. After this, the railway can re-open.
The road will be rebuilt, and they will restore the roundabout and pavements. Murphy, a firm, does the work and will have a compound by the railway. Work should finish by next March.
Network Rail and others planned diversions. Closures affect Greek Street and other routes, and councilors warn of significant travel issues. A councilor has said the project means chaos.
Olivia Boland works for Network Rail. She said the bridge work is essential and will ensure safety for years. She knows the closure will be disruptive and is sorry for the inconvenience caused.
Grace Baynham is a council member. She acknowledges disruptions for everyone but said the work is vital for safety, as the railway is one of Britain’s busiest. She appreciates patience during this project.