New Metrolink Bridge in Rochdale

Engineers building the Metrolink line to Rochdale have installed a 52 metre long viaduct in the town

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A massive bridge appeared in Rochdale over the weekend, when GMPTE’s engineers erected it between 1 and 3 January.

The 52-metre bridge will carry trams over the Manchester-Leeds railway when the Metrolink arrives next year.

Construction involved 400 tonnes of steel, over 5000 bolts and a 1000-tonne ‘super lift’, and further work is still to be done throughout January and February to complete the viaduct.

Councillor Ian Macdonald, Chair of Greater Manchester Integrated Transport Authority (GMITA), said: "The viaduct is one of the largest new structures on the Metrolink extensions, and is a vital part of ongoing work to bring a new Metrolink line from Manchester into the heart of Rochdale.

"This line is one of five major Metrolink expansions, which is aimed at improving accessibility by providing residents and visitors with even better public transport links across the region."

It was literally lifted into place in an example of a modern-day technical marvel, a consortium led by MPact-Thales (MPT).

MPT Senior Engineer Rob Salmon said: "We have been planning the lifting operation for the past 18 months, so to see the bridge lifted successfully into place made for a satisfying new year. It was only made possible by the hard work of the whole team in the run up to and during the possession and I would like to thank all involved."

The bridge is just East of Rochdale train station on the Calder Valley line, and will be part of the line that will connect Rochdale with Manchester City Centre and Oldham.