Network Rail is underway with a £17 million maintenance project in Cheshire.

The scheme will protect some of the county's most iconic railway bridges on the line from Crewe to Manchester and Sandbach to Northwich.

As part of the company's Railway Upgrade Plan, the Grade-II listed viaducts at Holmes Chapel and Peover will be redeveloped, including the removal of water stains on the walls, brickwork repairs and waterproofing.

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Engineers will also undertake strengthening work to the Hungerford Road bridge in Crewe, Shipbrook Road bridge in Rudheath and to the Whatcroft underbridge and the Trent and Mersey Canal bridge in Davenham.

The refurbishment programme involves a full closure of the railway route between 13 and 24 February.

A train operator spokesperson said: "This investment is vital and will deliver real benefits in helping to provide customers with a more reliable railway.

"All affected train operating companies are working closely with Network Rail to ensure alternative travel arrangements are in place wherever possible and to keep disruption to a minimum whilst this important work is carried out."

(LM)