£3.2m Radcliffe bridge lands in Radcliffe to improve access and reconnect communities

A landmark moment happened at Milltown Street in Radcliffe this week when a new £3.2 million 50-metre single span bridge was crane lifted into position, restoring a long-lost link across the River Irwell.

The former Milltown Street Bridge was destroyed by Storm Eva on Boxing Day in 2015.

Made in Nottingham by Briton Fabricators and installed by main contractor, Bethell, the replacement bridge will significantly improve walking, wheeling and cycling access. Of single span design without any in-river supports and sitting higher above the river, the new design improves flood resilience and reduces the risk of future damage.

As part of the Bee Network, Greater Manchester’s new joined-up transport network, the scheme has been funded from the UK Government’s City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement and the Greater Manchester Mayor’s Challenge Fund. The cost of the bridge reflects the need to protect the environment and the challenges of building safely and to current standards in a complex riverside location.

Councillor Alan Quinn, Cabinet Member for the Environment and Climate Change, said: "Watching the new bridge being lifted into place was a truly historic moment for Radcliffe. Fabricated here in the UK using British steel, it showcases the best of engineering and craftsmanship. While there’s still work to do before it opens, it won’t be long before residents can enjoy greener journeys across the River Irwell. By restoring this bridge, we’re reconnecting communities and supporting sustainable travel for the future."

Works to the new bridge will continue over the winter, with completion anticipated in March 2026.

Richard Nickson, Active Travel Network Director at TfGM, said: “This new bridge will restore a key route for people making journeys by walking, cycling and wheeling in and through Radcliffe, providing a real boost to sustainable travel in the area.

“Investment in active travel infrastructure is key to the success of the Bee Network, and I look forward to the bridge opening next spring.”

Remaining works to complete the bridge include:

• North and south-side ducting, edging, surfacing, and landscaping
• Waterproofing and surface dressing to concrete structures
• Crane lift and Installation of southern access ramp
• Final installation of fencing

Bury Council’s Engineering Services Team are overseeing the scheme from start to finish. Bethell (main contractor) are responsible for ensuring all works are carried out safely.

For more information, visit www.bury.gov.uk/milltown-bridge

ENDS

Notes to editors

View the bridge installation video: https://youtu.be/m8aF4cNmBYY

About the Bee Network

The Bee Network is Greater Manchester’s new joined up transport network, taking you where you need to go.

All local bus and tram services are now part of the Bee Network and Transport for Greater Manchester are working hard to build and integrate the largest walking, wheeling and cycling network in the UK.

Bury Local Bee Network Forum

Bury residents and businesses can get involved in shaping and influencing local transport in Bury and across Greater Manchester by attending the Bury forum meetings.

To find out more www.bury.gov.uk/beenetwork-forum

Pioneer Mill/surrounding area

As the bridge replacement scheme progresses, Bury Council will be actively working in partnership with a range of enforcement agencies to address issues and utilise all available powers to improve this area of Radcliffe.