Rail passengers trying to get from Preston to Manchester face delays due to a bridge collapse.

A burst water main at the bridge near Moses Gate Station means Bolton station remains closed.

The station was due to open on Monday (28 August) but this emergency work has delayed plans.

Replacement buses are in place for Northern services on the Blackpool North-Manchester line.

Senior sponsor for Network Rail said: “We are working round the clock to repair the damaged bridge and get train customers and road-users on the move as normal through this area.
“Repairing the water-damaged bridge is a complex engineering challenge requiring a bespoke design.

“We are working closely with Bolton Council, Transport for Greater Manchester and United Utilities to safely carry out the repairs so the railway line.”

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Some trains to Manchester are running direct, but go via Wigan North Western.

Passengers are advised to check the National Rail website before travel and allow extra time for their journey.