21st December 2018
Network Rail and Warrington Borough Council are to work together on the vital replacement of Stocks Lane railway bridge.
Starting on 10 January 2019, the work is part of the Great North Rail Project’s vast programme of improvement and upgrades to the railway across the north of England.
The bridge, which provides a key route over the railway, was built in the early 1870s and is need of replacement after being used for nearly 150 years.
To undertake the work, Stocks Lane will be closed from Liverpool Road to the junction of Meeting Lane in Penketh between 10 January and September 2019.
The work will be completed in two phases by Network Rail and Warrington Borough Council, to minimise disruption as much as possible to local people.
The first phase will see Network Rail demolish the bridge and rebuild it. This work will take place until June 2019.
The second phase will be carried out by Warrington Borough Council and will start in April until September 2019. It will involve installing safety barriers, highway fencing and laying the road and footpaths.
Simon Smith, Network Rail sponsor, said: “Replacing Stocks Lane bridge is essential to the long-term operation of the railway as part of the Great North Rail Project. The scheme we have agreed with Warrington Borough Council is the most effective way to carry out the work and cause the least disruption to local people.
“We appreciate the inconvenience this work will cause and can assure people we will complete it as quickly and safely as possible.”
Councillor Hans Mundry, Warrington Borough Council’s executive board member for highways, transportation and public realm, said: “These works are an important part of the ongoing programme to ensure the safety of the rail network.
“We will be working in close partnership with Network Rail to minimise disruption as much as possible, and we thank local residents in advance for their patience while this work is carried out.”
A clearly marked diversionary route will be in place for motorists. A temporary footpath diversion will be in place throughout the duration of works for pedestrians and cyclists.
