West Coast Main Line bridge that's 'reached the end of its life' to be replaced

A bridge that takes the West Coast Main Line over the M6 is to be replaced in 2026 in a £60 million project.

Clifton Bridge near Penrith, Cumbria, is 71 years old and is said to have reached the end of its life, with only one train at a time allowed over it.

Network Rail has said there will be road and rail closures in January next year when the old bridge is dismantled and its replacement, which will be built on site, is installed.

Engineers arrived at the site in early January to prepare a compound for the work.

Olivia Boland, Network Rail sponsor, 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.

“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.”

A two-week closure of the West Coast Main Line will take place in January 2026, while the M6 will be shut over two weekends between junctions 39 and 40.