Market Street in Bury reopens following £500,000 bridge repairs

Monday, 3 November 2025 15:02

By David Murphy

A key route into Bury town centre has reopened after a five-month closure for critical bridge works

Market Street in Bury is now fully open to traffic and pedestrians following the completion of a £500,000 repair scheme to the Market Street Bridge.

The project, which began earlier this year, focused on replacing the bridge’s bearings, vital components that support the structure and allow for safe movement of both vehicles and trains. The bridge also sits above the East Lancashire Railway line, used by heritage services and other traffic.

Bury Council confirmed that its engineering services team coordinated and supervised the project from start to finish, with local contractor Bethell carrying out the work.

Councillor Alan Quinn, cabinet member for the environment, climate change and operations, said:

“We’re delighted to confirm that the works to Market Street Bridge are now complete, and the road closure has been lifted.

“This essential scheme has strengthened a key town centre route and will help ensure its safety and resilience for years to come.”

He added:

“We’d like to thank residents, businesses, and road users for their patience and cooperation throughout the project.”

The scheme was aimed at maintaining public safety and protecting local infrastructure amid growing pressure on council-maintained routes. Market Street acts as a gateway between the town centre and surrounding residential areas.

The East Lancashire Railway, which runs below the bridge, remained operational throughout the works, thanks to coordination between the contractor and railway operators.

The reopening will be welcomed by traders in the area, many of whom had reported reduced footfall and increased journey times during the temporary closure.

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something happening in our Borough?

Let us know by emailing newsdesk@rochvalleyradio.com

All contact will be treated in confidence.

More from Local News

Driver admits killing 68-year-old woman in Rochdale during car rampage

A man who drove into several people, killing a woman in Rochdale, has pleaded guilty to manslaughter and six attempted murders
Six-storey block of 40 flats planned at prime town centre site

Plans for a block of 40 flats at a town centre site have been submitted.
Divine intervention sought as developer eyes former convent for 10-flat conversion

Developers have applied to turn a former religious home in Middleton into a block of ten apartments, bringing an end to its sacred past.
Hopwood Hall College will get huge revamp

Hopwood Hall College will get a massive campus overhaul now plans for a new teaching block have been approved.
Recycled cremation metals fund £10,000 boost for Rochdale’s Jolly Josh charity

A local children’s charity has been awarded £10,000 thanks to a unique metal recycling scheme supported by Rochdale Council.
Free Santa’s grotto returns to The Rock with festive magic and charity cheer

Families in Bury invited to enjoy a free festive experience with Santa, chocolate treats and a land train this Christmas
Spanish grandson retraces his grandfather’s 1936 footsteps in Rochdale

An emotional visit from Barcelona reveals how Rochdale’s Hotel Wellington became a wartime refuge for one Spanish worker, and sparked a family’s lifelong connection to the town
Bury GP practice urges action as women call menopause symptoms ‘complete torture’

A GP practice in Bury is calling on the government to extend menopause support across all age groups, after helping hundreds of women describe their symptoms as “brutal”, “life-changing”, and even “marriage-destroying”.
Elderly woman targeted in doorstep burglary by 'clown' on Birch Road

An elderly resident living in a Birch Road bungalow was left shaken after a burglar dressed as a clown tricked their way into her home before stealing her purse.
‘Devastated’ family pay tribute as police investigate death of Bacup man Luke Harden

A murder investigation is under way after the death of 36-year-old Luke Harden in the early hours of Saturday morning in Bacup. His family say they are “devastated” and described him as a loving son, brother, and friend.
Estate worried about what’s next for ‘Rochdale’s Chernobyl’

Tearing down trees next to ‘Rochdale’s Chernobyl’ sparked fear back in 2004. Over two decades later, the same fear remains.
Rochdale grooming gang member Adil Khan vanishes during deportation process

A convicted child sex offender from the notorious Rochdale grooming gang has absconded from the UK, Greater Manchester Police has confirmed.