The 145-year-old Lancashire Bridge in Stockport Town Centre has been hidden under Warren Street since 1937.
Now work underway to reveal the bridge for the first time in seventy eight years has reached an important milestone with the removal of a reinforced concrete bridge built next to the historic bridge.
The project includes refurbishment of the historic stone arched Lancashire Bridge, the creation of new public realm space surrounding the bridge, a new viewing area and the realignment of Warren Street.
This £1.6m Stockport Council managed project received funding support in 2014 through the Department for Transport ‘Local Pinch Point Fund’ to help the local authority repair the bridge structure.
Councillor Martin Candler, Stockport Council’s Executive Member for Communities and Sustainability, said: “This exciting project has not only enabled the Council to address a structural problem at the bridge but also improve the transport layout at this busy town centre junction, creating a unique public area that will enhance the centre.”
Work is ongoing and expected to be completed in March 2015.
The Merseyway area has also seen wider works taking place, including the new £45 million Redrock retail and leisure scheme on the former Bridgefield Street car park in the town centre, which has recently received full planning permission. The scheme includes a new 40,000 sq ft cinema, restaurant units and shops.
