Cheshire lines to close for bridge works

Network Rail is to invest £17 million on the refurbishment of four bridges and two viaducts in Cheshire. The works will require an 11-day closure of both the Crewe to Manchester and Sandbach to Northwich lines from February 13-24.

Water stains on the walls of Grade 2-listed viaducts at Holmes Chapel and Peover will be removed, damaged brickwork will be repaired, and both structures will be waterproofed.

At the same time, essential strengthening work will be carried out at Hungerford Road bridge in Crewe, Shipbrook Road bridge in Rudheath, and to the Whatcroft underbridge and Trent & Mersey canal bridge in Davenham.

The route closures will result in services to Manchester from London and the South being diverted via Macclesfield. Replacement bus services will be provided for passengers travelling on local services between Stockport, Wilmslow and Crewe.

A spokesman on behalf of Virgin Trains, Northern Rail, CrossCountry and Arriva said: “We understand that improvement works affect passengers. This investment is vital and will deliver real benefits in helping provide customers with a more reliable railway.

“All affected train operating companies are working closely with Network Rail to ensure alternative travel arrangements are in place wherever possible, and to keep disruption to a minimum while this important work is carried out.”