Cliftpn Bridge

How Skanska Plans to Replace Clifton Bridge in Just 15 Days

Network Rail has selected Skanska for the replacement of Clifton Bridge in Penrith. This £43 million project involves Skanska designing, constructing, and installing a new 130-metre single-span steel bridge to replace the current one.

Clifton Bridge is a crucial part of the West Coast Main Line, crossing the M6 motorway near Penrith. Skanska's role includes dismantling the existing bridge and erecting the new 130-meter single-span steel structure.

The new bridge will be constructed at a dedicated site near the current bridge. By the end of this year, the old bridge will be removed, and the new one will be positioned and commissioned during a 15-day blockade on the West Coast Main Line, starting December 31.

This project marks Skanska's first award under Network Rail’s five-year North West and Central Framework, which runs from April 2024 to March 2029.

“Over recent months, we have worked closely with Network Rail to simplify and refine the design and construction methodology, ensuring that it meets budget and programme targets,” said James Corker, Operations Director (Rail).

“This is a complex project that will be delivered to tight timescales, and we are delighted to have been appointed.”

“It draws on our expertise delivering similar schemes, with close support from our supply chain team.

“We have found ways to reduce cost, time and carbon, including through value engineering to minimise works required in reusing existing bridge support structures, such as abutments and piers. It’s been a really collaborative process and we are now very much looking forward to beginning main construction.”

Alongside Network Rail, the project has been collaboratively developed with several key stakeholders, including National Highways, Westmorland & Furness Council, the Environment Agency, and the National Trust.

Image credit: Skanska

RTM Issue 145

RTM Issue 145

METRO TUNNELLING WORK REMEMBERED ON THE PROJECT’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY

Focusing on the latest developments, innovations, and policy impacts in the UK rail industry, with a particular emphasis on sustainability, infrastructure upgrades, and future technological advancements.

More articles...

View all
TransCityRail Banner

TransCityRail

South \ 10.07.25
Scotland \ 09.10.25
North \ 06.11.25
Mids \ 26.02.26

TransCityRail is a series of regional, interactive and insightful events across the country bringing together leaders, collaborators, problem solvers and innovators in a creative and invigorating way.
 

This series of events supports and informs the whole of the rail industry and connects suppliers with buyers, specifiers, leaders and decision-makers looking to procure a wide variety of innovative products and services for their region.

Rail Technology Magazine Podcast

Listen to industry leaders on everything within rail

Whether it's the latest advancements in rail technology, policies, innovations, or the challenges facing the rail industry providers, we cover it all.

 

Join us as we engage with top rail professionals, industry leaders, and policy experts to bring you insightful conversations that matter.