Work starts on new M602 footbridge
Work is due to start on 30 August 2016 to replace the canopy on a popular pedestrian bridge over the M602.
The bridge serves communities and businesses in Eccles who chose the new design in a public consultation last year.
The Highways England scheme – between junctions 2 and 3 – will take around 12 weeks, Monday to Friday. Most of the work will be carried out under night closures between 10pm and 5am.
Occasional daytime work will take place between 8am and 5pm, but the road will not be closed. There will also be some closures of the eastbound exit slip road and the westbound entry slip road during the project.
Signed diversion routes will be in place.
The footbridge needs to be closed completely while work takes place, with a diversion in place on the shortest well-lit walking route via Church Street, John William Street, Albert Street and Wellington Road.
Highways England is replacing the previous structure in partnership with Salford Council as it is 40 years old, and was becoming very difficult to repair to a good standard.
Highways England Project Manager Mark Mosley said:
The route is very important as it serves the station and the town, but the bridge canopy is looking very ragged these days and becoming more difficult to repair.
I’m sure that a smart new bridge will provide a much improved welcome to Eccles from the station.
Councillor Roger Jones, lead member for transport, Salford City Council, said:
This local landmark is in need of a facelift after 40 years and unfortunately this can’t be done with it open. I’m delighted that Highways England has worked with local people on the new design for the canopy and I look forward to seeing it in place.
General enquiries
Members of the public should contact the Highways England customer contact centre on 0300 123 5000.
Media enquiries
Journalists should contact the Highways England press office on 0844 693 1448 and use the menu to speak to the most appropriate press officer.