Network Rail is set to replace the 71-year-old Clifton Bridge near Penrith in 2026, with preparations for the project already underway.

The bridge, which carries trains over the M6 between the North of England and Scotland, has reached the end of its operational life and requires replacement. Currently, only one train can cross the bridge at a time, leading to delays for both passengers and freight services.

To ensure the safety of workers during the bridge replacement, road and rail closures will be implemented in January 2026. The project will involve dismantling the old bridge, which will be transported via the M6, while materials for the new bridge will be delivered by road and assembled on-site.

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This week, engineers began preparing the worksite, including setting up a compound for the project. National Highways, working on behalf of Network Rail, is also constructing an access road to facilitate the work.

From January 2025 until the project's completion in 2026, there will be traffic management on the M6, starting about three miles south of Junction 40.

The work is expected to improve safety and reliability for both passengers and freight using this vital 135-metre-long bridge. The railway will be closed for two weeks in January 2026 to demolish and replace the bridge over two weekends. Alternative transport options will be provided, and train operators are working with Network Rail to plan for the closures.

Additionally, the M6 will be closed in both directions over two weekends: from the evening of Friday, 2 January to the morning of Monday, 5 January 2026, and from the evening of Friday, 9 January to the morning of Monday, 12 January 2026, between Junction 39 at Shap and Junction 40 near Penrith.