The works are scheduled to begin on 22 October 2024 and are expected to last for at least a year, though they are subject to weather conditions, availability of supplies and other factors that affect all construction projects.

Motorists in the area should allow extra time and/or use alternative routes and be aware that full closure may be required at times.

Once complete, the upgrades will help to reduce congestion in the area and enhance conditions for all road users, producing a smoother and more efficient crossing.

Any improvement works involve a degree of disruption, so although this is inevitable, we apologise for any inconvenience and thank all road users for their patience.

Please register here for email updates on the project. You can also follow local media.

Why are the upgrades happening?

The works are proceeding following approval from the Department for Transport to upgrade the bridge and update the toll rate, the outcome of an inquiry held by the Department into the matter in 2022.

In approving the toll update, the Department for Transport agreed the bridge needs extensive repair work and renovations to provide a modern crossing for road users, which will improve reliability and cut journey times.

The current 12p toll rate, one of the lowest in England, was set by an Act of Parliament in 1863.

The toll has not changed in 161 years, and we estimate that, if it had kept up with inflation, the toll would now be around £15 rather than the £1 it will be when the works are complete.

There will be a discount scheme in place for local residents once the upgrade works are complete and the toll is restored. The new toll will cover future maintenance and repair work, required to ensure the bridge remains safe and operational.

 

Frequently asked questions

 

When are the works starting, and how long will they last?

The works are scheduled to begin on 22 October 2024 and are expected to last for at least a year, though they are subject to weather conditions, availability of supplies and other factors that affect all construction projects.

Why are the works happening?

The works are proceeding following approval from the Department for Transport to upgrade the bridge and update the toll rate, the outcome of an inquiry held by the Department into the matter in 2022.

In approving the toll update, the Department for Transport agreed the bridge needs extensive repair work and renovations to provide a modern crossing for road users, which will improve reliability and cut journey times.

How will the works affect my journey times?

Motorists in the area should allow extra time and/or use alternative routes and be aware that full closure may be required at times.

What will the toll charge be during the works?

All toll charges for crossing the Warburton Toll Bridge are suspended from 30 September 2024 and for the duration of the works. The works are expected to last for at least a year, though they are subject to weather conditions, availability of supplies and other factors that affect all construction projects.

What will the toll charge be when the works are complete?

The new toll charge will be £1, although there will be a discount scheme in place for local residents once the upgrade works are complete and the toll is restored.

Why is the toll charge increasing?

The new toll will cover future maintenance and repair work, required to ensure the bridge remains safe and operational.

The current 12p toll rate, one of the lowest in England, was set by an Act of Parliament in 1863.

The toll has not changed in 161 years, and we estimate that, if it had kept up with inflation, the toll would now be around £15 rather than the £1 it will be when the works are complete.

How can I keep up to date on the works?

Please register here for email updates on the project.

You can also follow local media and visit our website: https://www.warburtontollbridge.co.uk/ to keep up to date with the latest news regarding the project.