A major traffic junction in Stockport has reopened following a year-long programme to replace the railway bridge that carries the four-way Greek Street roundabout over the West Coast Main Line.

Delivered by Murphy for Network Rail, the £20 million Greek Street bridge replacement is designed to safeguard both the road above and the railway beneath for the next 120 years. The 67-year-old structure was removed last August and a new bridge assembled from 50 sections was craned into place during an unprecedented 21-day railway closure. Subsequent works reinstated the carriageway and buried utilities, including drainage, power, and gas and water mains. The project also involved constructing a 350m³ concrete bridge deck.

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On the eve of the reopening, pupils from St Matthew's and Our Lady's received special road safety sessions as traffic is expected to increase around their schools. A much-admired mosaic from the former bridge has been retained, reinstalled on the new structure and unveiled.

Speaking at the opening Patrick Vallely, Network Rail Capital Delivery head of Buildings and Civils, said: "Seeing traffic running smoothly once more at Greek Street is a proud moment for us all who've been working on this project for many years.

"Replacing Greek Street bridge was a massive feat of civil engineering which has impacted people right across Stockport for over a year, so I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone for bearing with us. This essential project now secures the future of this structure and will provide a safe and reliable road and railway network for decades to come."

Jamie Rothwell, Managing Director Transportation, at Murphy, said: "This project is testament to the expertise and collaboration between the Murphy and Network Rail team, and our supply chain partners, who all worked together to realise this complex and critical upgrade.

"We are grateful for the support received by the local community whilst we have been on site and are pleased to be able to hand back this improved and future-proofed structure which will serve the local community for many years to come."