Major sections of a replacement railway bridge over the M6 are arriving on site.
Network Rail is investing £60 million to replace Clifton Bridge, near Penrith, so it can continue to carry passenger and freight trains over one of Britain’s busiest motorways.
At 60 years old, weight restrictions on the current structure mean it can only carry one train at a time, causing delays to train services.
Once built in January next year the new bridge will measure 130m in length and weigh around 3,000 tonnes.
In recent weeks, Network Rail and contractor Skanska have welcomed the delivery of the first of five huge beams for the new three-span structure.
The parts are pre-fabricated in Glasgow, before making their journey south, ready to be assembled on a purpose-built work site next to the M6 in Clifton.
William Brandon, Network Rail’s project manager, 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.
“It’s fantastic to see the first parts of the bridge arrive on site six months before the work.
“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.”
Rail passengers and motorists are being advised of changes to journeys during the main work in January.
Part of the West Coast Main Line will be closed between December 31 and January 15.
Network Rail is working with train operators on the best possible alternative travel plan for this significant closure and will share more information soon.
Since January this year, a 24-hour hard shoulder and lane one northbound closure between junction 39 and junction 40 of the M6 has been in place to help facilitate access to the worksite.
National Highways recently completed the construction of a slip road to allow engineers to access the roadside compound, which will help reduce disruption to nearby local communities.
National Highways is advising motorists of two weekend closures to the M6 in January 2026:
- Friday January 2 to Monday January 5 2026
- Friday January 9 to Monday January 12 2026.
During these periods, the motorway will close in both directions between junction 39 at Shap and junction 40 near Penrith.
Drivers are advised to plan their journeys, diversionary routes will be made available in due course.
