A new £23 million bridge has been unveiled in Greater Manchester, marking the eagerly anticipated completion of a three-year scheme.

National Highways and its partners celebrated the opening of St Anne’s Road motorway bridge in Denton with a ribbon-cutting ceremony performed by four pupils from the neighbouring St Anne’s Primary School, accompanied by the Reverend Philip Brierley from St Anne’s Church, who also led a short blessing of the bridge.

The new structure, which crosses the M67, will provide unrestricted access for all road users and pedestrians, including improved eastbound access to the motorway. 

National Highways Project Manager Mangat Bansal said: 

“It has been a privilege to deliver this scheme and work with the local community. Replacing the motorway bridge is the culmination of a lot of hard work, presenting unique engineering challenges with the bridge carrying vital utility services including water, gas, electricity and telecommunications to customers across a wide part of Greater Manchester.  

“We thank the local community for their patience and understanding whilst the bridge has been closed for construction.” 

Carlos Garcia Ferrer, Project Director at Tilbury Douglas, said: 

“This has been a great scheme to deliver. All those involved in the project, including our teams, supply chain partners and contractors have showcased a high level of technical expertise throughout and can be proud of their achievement. 

“A measure of their professionalism is the attainment of ‘Excellent’ ratings in recent successive Considerate Constructors Scheme results, leaving a lasting positive legacy through their community engagement initiatives, working with local schools, offering learning opportunities through the national Open Doors initiative and supporting numerous organisations, charities and community groups.” 

(Pictures: National Highways)