Major bridge reopens for first time in three years as daily diversions and vehicle ban get lifted

The reopening marks the end of a long-running closure that has affected residents, commuters and businesses since construction began in 2023.

St Anne's Road bridge provides unrestricted access for all road users, including pedestrians and cyclists, and delivers improved eastbound access onto the M67.

It also removes previous load restrictions, meaning heavy goods vehicles can now use the route safely for the first time in years.

The original bridge had reached the end of its operational life, with assessments warning that the ageing structure required extensive repairs due to its age and outdated construction methods.

National Highways Project Manager Mangat Bansal said the reopening was the result of years of careful planning and complex engineering work.

He shared: "It has been a privilege to deliver this scheme and work with the local community. Replacing the motorway bridge is the culmination of a lot of hard work, presenting unique engineering challenges with the bridge carrying vital utility services including water, gas, electricity and telecommunications to customers across a wide part of Greater Manchester.

"We thank the local community for their patience and understanding whilst the bridge has been closed for construction."

The project was delivered by National Highways in partnership with construction firm Tilbury Douglas and involved the demolition of the original bridge deck using two long-reach excavators fitted with hydraulic jaws, operating from carriageway level.

Following demolition, engineers removed and realigned the abutment walls at each end of the bridge before installing two steel beams weighing a combined 97 tonnes to carry essential utility services.

A further four pairs of braced steel beams, weighing more than 250 tonnes in total, were then lifted into place to support the new bridge deck.

Despite the scale and complexity of the works, the project was completed on programme, in line with the original three-year timetable.

Carlos Garcia Ferrer, project director at Tilbury Douglas, said: "This has been a great scheme to deliver. All those involved, including our teams, supply chain partners and contractors, have showcased a high level of technical expertise throughout and can be proud of their achievement."

He added that the project had also left a positive legacy in the local community, with teams supporting schools, charities and community groups.

Initiatives included fundraising thousands of pounds for blood cancer charity DKMS, regular donations to Hyde Morrisons' Foodbank, and sponsorship of school and community events.

Environmental measures formed a key part of the project, with the agency making sure to include recycling demolition materials as well as sourcing suppliers within 30 miles of the site who operate carbon reduction policies, and installing a solar-powered CCTV security system.

With the bridge now open, the former St Anne's Road diversion route via the road by the former Penny Farthing pub has closed to traffic, restoring normal journeys for local residents.

Alongside meeting modern safety standards, the new bridge is expected to improve journey reliability both locally and on the M67 by reducing the risk of unplanned maintenance closures in the future.