A TOWN centre bridge which has been closed for more than 10 months will re-open in May — as the first phase of work is completed.

Network Rail has been working to demolish and rebuild Orlando Bridge, off Manchester Road, to prepare the area for the introduction of new electric trains.

Orlando Street, which runs over the bridge, has been closed for the entirety of the project.

Network Rail is scheduled to complete its part of the project by the end of the month, when Bolton Council will carry out further work to the bridge.

Council workers will carry out strengthening work to a section of the bridge to ensure it is secure enough to hold 40 tonne heavy goods vehicles.

This work is expected to be completed by the end of May, at which point the road will re-open.

A council spokesman said: "Bolton Council will be carrying out further improvements to strengthen Orlando Street Bridge after Network Rail finishes its rebuilding work.

"Network Rail is currently completing a large section of the bridge as part of plans to electrify the rail network in the region.

"This work is scheduled to finish by the end of March.

"Once this is complete, the council will be able to get access to carry out strengthening work to the last section of the bridge near Manchester Road.

"This section of the bridge is in the council’s ownership but has been part of the site area for Network Rail, to enable them to carry out temporary diversions and get access to the bridge over the railway.

"The work the council will carry out is essential in order for the bridge to hold 40-tonne heavy goods vehicles after it reopens. Previously the bridge had a three-tonne weight limit.

"Orlando Street will remain shut while the refurbishment is underway to enable the work to take place safely.

"This work is expected to finish at the end of May, and Orlando Street will reopen after that."