NETWORK Rail bosses have given an update as its engineers continue with work to upgrade a Grade II listed viaduct near Holmes Chapel.

The transport body announced in December 2015 that it would repair Holmes Chapel/Twemlow viaduct as it needed urgent 'refurbishment'

The works involved closing a section of line between Wilmslow and Crewe from Saturday, February 13 to Tuesday, February 23.

You can see an update on the work by clicking on the video above.

Joelle Caldarelli, Network Rail scheme project manager, said: “The structure at Holmes Chapel doesn’t have any functioning drainage so we are installing a brand new system which will protect the bridge for another 125 years.

“We’ve been working round the clock and have made some fantastic progress during the first five days of the blockade. We’ve completed the refurbishment of one of the lines and have already started work on the second line so we’re well over half way through.

“By doing this work in one go, it enables us to do other work at the same time. In addition to Holmes Chapel, we’ve taken the opportunity to do lots of work on the Crewe to Manchester Piccadilly line.

"We’ve strengthened the Hungerford Road bridge in Crewe, Shipbrook Road bridge in Rudheath and the Whatcroft underbridge and Trent and Mersey Canal bridge in Davenham. This creates efficiency in terms of cost, time and disruption to passengers.”

Chris Wright, contracts manager for J. Murphy & Sons Limited, the project contractor, said: “We’ve been working closely with Network Rail for some time to make sure this complicated project was carried out as quickly and efficiently as possible, by using innovative techniques. The team has put in a huge amount of effort on the scheme and the work has been going smoothly. We’re looking forward to seeing how the viaduct looks once the project is finished.”

Once work on the drainage is complete, contractors will begin work on the removal of water stains on the walls, brickwork repairs and waterproofing.

The project team took the opportunity to show some local politicians how work is getting on.

Cllr Terry Price, a parish councillor on Twemlow Parish Council, who lives near Holmes Chapel viaduct, said: “We’ve been invited to come and have a look at the work being done, which is very interesting. I didn’t realise there was so much stone on top of the viaduct.

“It’s very good. It’s going to look good when it’s finished.

“The project team have worked well with neighbours. They’ve sent lads round with letters, explained when they’re working and when they’re not working. There’s not really been any noise, and at least we know what it is.”

A spokesperson on behalf of Virgin Trains, Northern Rail, CrossCountry trains and Arriva Trains Wales said: "We understand that improvement works impact on passengers. This investment is vital and will deliver real benefits in helping to provide customers with a more reliable railway.

"All affected train operating companies are working closely with Network Rail to ensure alternative travel arrangements are in place wherever possible and to keep disruption to a minimum whilst this important work is carried out.

"Our advice to all customers travelling between Manchester and Crewe is to check their journey before they travel."

During the 11-day closure services to Manchester from London and South Wales (and vice-versa) will temporarily by-pass Crewe and be diverted via Macclesfield and Stockport. Local rail services will also be affected between Wilmslow, Stockport and Crewe. Replacement bus services will be provided and alternative routes will be signposted for all passengers who are affected