Potential disruption as work due to start on borough railway bridge

Shakerley Lane railway bridge, Atherton, worked is planned to ensure the bridge is safe and reliable for passengers and road users.

The work to Shakerley Lane railway bridge, in Atherton, is being delivered as part of the Great North Rail Project.

The scheme will ensure that the bridge remains safe and reliable for passengers and road users for decades to come.

Work starts on Monday, January 4 and will last for 16 weeks, which will mean the bridge will have to close to the public for a period of time.

During the closure, Shams Farm will be accessible via Network Rail’s temporary worksite off Bolton Road.

The exact road closures will be confirmed in the following weeks.

Engineers will need to remove trees and shrubbery on Network Rail land on either side of the railway to make way for the worksite and the machinery needed to replace the bridge.

Work is due to finish on April 23.

In a letter to residents, Network Rail, said: “We understand the inconvenience and disruption our work may cause.

“The type of equipment and machinery we use does mean some disturbance is unavoidable, but we will make every effort to minimise any unnecessary noise.

“All staff and contractors are briefed on working responsibly in the local community and we expect staff to be considerate, polite and courteous at all times.”

Atherton Independent councillor, Jamie Hodgkinson, welcomed the work to the bridge.

Coun Hodgkinson said: “The bridge is a good sign of improvements for the area, we are just wanting to make residents aware that the area might be disrupted why works are carried out.

“The entrance to the temporary road leads on to the busy Bolton road so might affect people’s travels and they should allow extra time to get through the junction.

“This bridge won’t be on any main roads, it’s on the lane that’s mainly used by the farm.”

For safety reasons, engineers will need to carry out some work while trains aren’t running, including overnight.

Anyone with additional questions and concerns can visit www.networkrail.co.uk/contact or call the 24-hour national helpline on 03457114141.

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