Murphy Group handed back the completed footbridge to Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) and Bolton Council last week in time for the opening of the entire Bolton Interchange scheme to customers this week.
Richard Smith, Murphy’s project manager, said: “This was a brilliant project where the Murphy team came together from across sectors and regions, working as one Murphy. The steel for the bridge was welded in our Newbridge structural steel shop in Ireland and it was fitted here by our rail team working out of Golborne. The Skylink is world-class and will certainly improve journeys for anyone travelling by train and bus to and from Bolton.”
The £3.5 million Skylink is a key aspect of the Bolton interchange scheme, which will improve bus links and facilities at the city’s main train station.
The interchange replaces Bolton bus station on Moor Lane and the new concourse featuring a café, convenience store, cash machine and free Wi-Fi. The Skylink offers travellers a quick route to and from the interchange, providing an easy transfer between buses and trains.
Sean Quinn, Murphy’s workshop manager, said: “Getting to follow a project from start to end is one of the greatest aspects of working in Murphy’s structural steel workshop. We spend weeks welding these huge spans and structures then, once they’re out the door, we get to follow the progress as it all takes shape. It’s very satisfying to see a project through from beginning to end.”
Councillor Cliff Morris, leader of Bolton Council, said: “It’s fantastic to see the completion of this exciting development. The interchange brings Bolton’s transport facilities firmly into the 21st century. It’s a magnificent new gateway to our town and an important part of our masterplan for the town centre.”
Bolton Interchange and Skylink has been financed through the Greater Manchester Transport Fund and supports the wider regeneration of the town centre.
