Network Rail is executing a major £22M bridge replacement project on the M62 near Rochdale.
- The M62 will face complete closures over two weekends in September to facilitate work on the Castleton bridge.
- The 60-year-old bridge, crucial for freight trains, is being replaced due to safety concerns related to corrosion.
- Innovative construction approaches are being implemented, which may serve as models for future infrastructure projects.
- Coordinated efforts are being made to minimise disruption for motorists during the closures, with signed diversions in place.
Network Rail has embarked on a significant infrastructure project involving the replacement of the aging Castleton railway bridge over the M62 near Rochdale. As part of this £22M initiative, the motorway will experience full closures in both directions for two weekends in September: from 9 PM on 6 September to 6 AM on 9 September, and again from 9 PM on 20 September to 6 AM on 23 September. This closure is necessary to facilitate the intricate construction work required to replace the 42-metre-long and 2000-tonne bridge.
The Castleton bridge, almost 60 years old, is listed in Network Rail’s risk register due to concerns over the corrosion issues common in post-tensioned bridges, which were frequently built during the UK’s motorway expansion of the mid-20th century. These structures have shown susceptibility to water infiltration into the post-tensioning system, leading to internal corrosion and compromising their structural integrity. The replacement of this bridge is thus critical not only for safety but also for the continuity of freight transport, which relies heavily on this crossing.
Construction of the new bridge utilises weathering steel, with innovative methods that may influence future infrastructure replacements. Preparation for this project spanned approximately 30 months, although the actual construction is occurring over an intensely condensed schedule. The new bridge’s significance is underscored by its role in freight transport to sites such as the Drax power station, which is pivotal to the UK’s energy supply, accounting for 6% of its energy.
Coordination between Network Rail, National Highways, and Transport for Greater Manchester has been key in mitigating the impact of the motorway closures. Motorists are being advised to avoid the area during the full weekend closures, with diversions using the A627M, A664, and A6046 routes clearly signed. Additionally, nighttime closures between Junctions 19 and 20 have been scheduled in both directions until the second weekend of full closure, with further closures planned in West Yorkshire during the same period, as part of a coordinated maintenance effort.
The replacement of the Castleton bridge is a crucial step in addressing structural concerns and ensuring continued logistical support for the UK’s energy sector.
