Major components of a replacement railway bridge carrying the West Coast Main Line over the M6 have begun arriving ahead of a full rebuild scheduled for January 2026.

Network Rail is investing £60 million to replace the 60-year-old Clifton bridge near Penrith, which currently operates under weight restrictions allowing only one train at a time, a constraint that has been causing delays to passenger and freight services.

Once complete, the new three-span structure will measure 130 metres in length and weigh around 3,000 tonnes. The first of five 'Very Important Beams' (VIBs) — prefabricated in Glasgow — have now been delivered to a purpose-built site next to the M6 in Clifton for assembly.

William Brandon, Network Rail's project manager, said: "We are rebuilding Clifton bridge over the M6 to keep rail passengers and motorway users safe for years to come. This project is essential as the bridge has reached the end of its life.

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"It's fantastic to see the first parts of the bridge arrive on site six months before the work.

"The main work, which involves rail and road closures, is not happening until January 2026. However, people living in the Clifton area or driving past might notice the start of our construction activities.

"We're working with National Highways to make sure we can carry out our work as safely as possible with as little inconvenience to local people and the travelling public. Thank you for your patience during this critical work."

Rosario Barcena, Skanska's rail programme director, added: "We've had fantastic collaboration on this project, including with Network Rail, National Highways, local authorities and our supply chain partners.

"To see the first steels arriving on site is a massive achievement. Our expert team is now very much focused on building the new bridge off site and planning for its installation in early January.

"As part of our works, we've had the opportunity to showcase careers in rail, engineering and construction and we’re delighted to have recruited two local apprentices."

The main works will require part of the West Coast Main Line to close between 31 December and 15 January 2026, with Network Rail working alongside train operators to arrange alternative travel.

To facilitate access to the worksite, a 24-hour hard shoulder and lane one northbound closure between junctions 39 and 40 of the M6 has been in place since January this year. National Highways has also built a new slip road to the roadside compound to minimise disruption to nearby communities.

Two full motorway closures are planned between Shap (junction 39) and Penrith (junction 40) from Friday 2 to Monday 5 January and Friday 9 to Monday 12 January 2026. Diversion routes will be confirmed closer to the time.