PLANS for a new railway flyover which will help provide increased capacity and reliability on the Stafford to Crewe section of the West Coast Main Line have been given the go-ahead.

Network Rail’s plans for the flyover at Norton Bridge, north of Stafford, will see six miles of new 100mph railway constructed.

Ten new bridge structures, one bridge enhancement, four river diversions as well as major environmental mitigation works, pipeline, road and footpath diversions will also be delivered as part of the £250m scheme.

Ian Jones, head of the Staffordshire Alliance, said: “With the West Coast main line set to reach capacity in just five years time, the flyover at Norton Bridge is one of the last improvements which can be made on the route which will help to provide a better service for passengers.

“It will remove a major pinch point and allow faster, more frequent and reliable passenger and freight services.

“Building on the recent completion of line speed improvements between Crewe and Norton Bridge, this has been a milestone month for the programme.

“Our key focus now is to deliver these works efficiently and effectively and minimise the impact they will have on the local community.”

Work on the flyover is due to start in spring 2014 and be completed in summer 2016.

For further information contact Network Rail’s national helpline on 08457 114 141, email: CRNW@networkrail.co.uk, or visit www.networkrail.co.uk/StaffordImprovements