Network Rail has completed a major project to replace Manton railway bridge in Rutland, which was over 150 years old.

The bridge carries the line between Melton Mowbray and Stamford/Kettering and runs over the busy A6003. Fully replacing it means passenger and freight services can continue running safely and reliably and people in the community can connect to other towns and cities for generations to come.

Work began on the project in April, and the main stage of work to lift the old bridge and install the new, stronger one from underneath took place in June.

Once the new bridge, which weighs around 425 tonnes, was in place, teams completed further brickwork and stonework, moved wires and removed the scaffolding.

The A6003 in Rutland, which links Oakham and Uppingham, was temporarily closed to allow the work to take place safely and it reopened on Sunday 4 July. The road remained open for the final part of the reconstruction.

Gary Walsh, Route Director for Network Rail's East Midlands route, said: "This has been a complex job which has significantly affected road users. I am pleased that we handed the road back on schedule and thank everyone for their patience while we carried out this essential investment.

"The line that Manton bridge carries and the A6003 which runs underneath it are both vital links for people in Rutland. Completing this project means that people can travel across the region safely and reliably for years to come."

Work on the project has completed and the remaining worksites in the area are expected to be removed by Friday 30 July.

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