£500k repair scheme set to begin on Market Street Bridge in Bury

Friday, 16 May 2025 18:16

By David Murphy

Thomas Bland, assistant project engineer (Bury Council); Councillor Alan Quinn; and Andy Bennett from Bethell.

A key bridge linking Bury town centre to the wider road network is to undergo essential repairs as part of a £500,000 improvement project starting later this month.

Market Street Bridge, which carries traffic over the East Lancashire Railway line, will be subject to a five-month repair scheme beginning Tuesday 27 May. The work, managed by Bury Council, is expected to run until October 2025.

The scheme involves replacing the bridge’s bearings – a vital component that allows the structure to flex under strain while keeping it safely in place. The works are designed to ensure the long-term stability and safety of the bridge for vehicles, pedestrians, and trains passing underneath.

Due to the complexity of the project and the location of the bridge, a section of Market Street will be closed to vehicles between Pyramid Park and Bury Athletics Track. A signed diversion will be in place throughout the closure period, and the footway will remain open for pedestrians.

Councillor Alan Quinn, cabinet member for the environment, operations and climate change, said: “Bridge bearings allow a bridge to adapt to pressure from traffic, temperature changes and movement. This scheme is essential for ensuring Market Street Bridge remains safe and secure for years to come.

“We recognise this will cause some disruption, but these repairs are vital to protect a key route into our town centre.”

Bury Council’s engineering services team will oversee the project, with construction work being carried out by contractor Bethell. Emergency services have been informed in advance of the road closure and diversion plans.