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Tuesday 29 Sep 2015

A666 lane closures while train tunnel is enlarged underneath

Region & Route:

| North West & Central

Lanes on the A666 into Bolton will be temporarily closed while engineers enlarge a train tunnel below the carriageway, Network Rail said today (29 September).

The lane closures, taking effect from this Saturday (3 October) are a precautionary measure to ensure work to enlarge the Farnworth tunnel progresses smoothly and safely.

While road-users are being advised to expect some congestion and speed restrictions, the closures will only affect one lane at a time, so traffic will keep flowing.

Nick Spall, route delivery director for Network Rail, said: “Safety is our top priority. While we expect to be able to move our tunnelling machine without incident underneath the A666, we are leaving nothing to chance.

“That’s why, as a safety precaution, lane closures are prudent while we tunnel underneath. This is a key route for motorists, and I apologise for any disruption this may cause.”

The lane closures will be in place from Manchester Road to Kearsley roundabout on the A666

Since August additional ground condition tests have been carried out underneath the road, and although they are not showing any cause for concern Network Rail is preparing for all possible outcomes.

Advanced warning signage will be in place from today to warn motorists and lane closures will commence from Saturday 3 October, as below:

• slow lane closure southbound and 40 mph speed limit on all lanes for two to three days
followed by
• both fast lanes will be closed, with a 40mph speed restriction on open lanes for three to four days
followed by
• slow lane closure northbound and 40 mph speed limit on all lanes for two to three days

This is in addition to Bolton Council’s planned night-time closures of St Peter’s Way from 8pm to 6am, Monday to Friday throughout October, in order to prepare for a full resurfacing.