A milestone has been reached in Radcliffe with the completion of a new £3.2m bridge at Milltown Street. The 50-metre single-span structure restores a crossing over the River Irwell, reconnecting communities for the first time in over a decade.
The original Milltown Street Bridge was destroyed by Storm Eva on Boxing Day 2015, severing a key local link and impacting access. The new bridge is a step forward in improving connectivity, supporting greener travel, and complementing wider regeneration across the Radcliffe area.
The opening ceremony was officiated by Bury Council’s Cabinet Member for the Environment, Councillor Alan Quinn, alongside the council’s leader and Cabinet Member for Strategic Growth, Councillor Eamonn O’Brien. Also in attendance were Radcliffe ward councillors, members of Bury Council’s Engineering Services Team, representatives for Transport for Greater Manchester, and pupils from Star Radcliffe Academy.
Made in Nottingham by Briton Fabricators and installed by Bethell, the replacement bridge will improve walking, wheeling and cycling access. The single span design without any in-river supports sits higher above the river, improves flood resilience and reduces the risk of future damage.
Quinn said: “This new bridge is a significant improvement on the structure it replaces. Designed and fabricated in the UK using British steel, it showcases high-quality engineering and craftsmanship built to modern standards.
“Despite the challenges of its complex location over the River Irwell, and construction taking place throughout the winter months, this project has been delivered on time and within budget. The result is a robust, flood-resilient crossing that supports walking, wheeling and cycling, improving everyday journeys for local people. It’s a high-quality asset that will serve the community for many years to come.”
Now the bridge is open to the public, a range of safety measures will protect it, and CCTV cameras will be in operation.
Richard Nickson, Active Travel Network director at TfGM, said: “This new bridge will restore a key route for people making journeys by walking, cycling and wheeling in and through Radcliffe, providing a real boost to sustainable travel in the area. Investment in active travel infrastructure is key to the success of the Bee Network, and I look forward to more people in Radcliffe opting for greener travel for shorter trips.”
