PARTS of the M6 will be closed over the next two weekends so giant cranes can be used to lift two refurbished footbridges into position.

The bridges, weighing 148 tons, will be lifted back into their original positions at White Hill and Vicarage between Junctions 26 and 27 near Shevington.

The bridges have been increased in height to reduce the risk of impact from high-sided vehicles and will also allow for future use of the hard shoulder as a running lane during maintenance works.

The bridges were dismantled earlier this year and taken to the nearby Leyland Vehicles factory where work has been completed.

Highways Agency project manager Paul Hupton said: "One bridge will be lifted into position this weekend, with the second bridge lifted the weekend after. Each bridge comes in two sections, requiring four cranes to manoeuvre them into position.

"It will mean the M6 is completely closed with a well-signed diversion route. Drivers are urged to allow extra time for their journey because of the diversion."

The four-mile section of motorway between Junctions 26 and 27 will be closed over night on Saturday, September 4, and Saturday, September 11, between 10pm and 9am.