Winsford Station Bridge investigation
Post-Tensioned Structure Inspection (PTSI) – Winsford Station Bridge, A54, Winsford
Latest update
Investigation works to Winsford Station Bridge are due to begin in July 2026.
Initial inspections to the underside of the bridge have already been completed under a series of planned Saturday night rail closures earlier this year.
The next phase of work will take place on the top of the bridge (road level) and will require a lane closure and diversion to allow the works to be carried out safely.
When
Works are currently scheduled to take place:
- from: Sunday 19 July 2026
- to: late August 2026
The programme has been timed to coincide with the summer school holidays to help reduce the impact on traffic.
Traffic management
To carry out the works safely:
- a lane closure will be in place on Winsford Station Bridge
- eastbound traffic will be maintained across the bridge
- westbound traffic will be diverted via the A533 and A5018
This phase of work is expected to take approximately six weeks to complete.
Background
Winsford Station Bridge is a four-span post-tensioned structure that carries the A54 over the electrified West Coast Main Line railway next to Winsford Station.
Constructed in the early 1960s, the bridge is an important link for both the local road network and the national rail network.
What is a post-tensioned bridge?
Post-tensioned bridges use high-strength steel tendons embedded within the concrete to give the structure its strength.
A specialist inspection is required to assess the condition of these tendons, as they are not visible from the outside.
What is needed?
The inspection involves:
- breaking out small areas of concrete to expose the steel tendons
- carrying out detailed condition assessments
- using hydro-demolition techniques (high-pressure water jets) to safely uncover the tendons
These works need to take place on the top of the bridge deck, following earlier inspections carried out underneath the structure.
Working over the railway
The bridge crosses the West Coast Main Line, one of the busiest rail routes in the country.
Some elements of the work can only be carried out during pre-planned Saturday night railway closures, agreed in advance with Network Rail.
This means the works must be carefully phased and coordinated, with preparation works taking place during the week and the most sensitive operations carried out overnight when rail access is available.
Further information
Residents and road users will be kept informed throughout the works via updates on this page and through the our social media channels.