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Thursday 29 Aug 2024

Network Rail unveils new “Harry’s Wall” at site of iconic Holmes Chapel landmark

Region & Route:

North West & Central

| North West & Central: North West

 Harry Styles fans are being encouraged to sign a new, purpose-built wall as an alternative to the Grade II listed Twemlow viaduct that has become a shrine to the pop superstar.

Twemlow viaduct is a 183-year-old Grade II listed structure which takes trains from Manchester to Crewe through Holmes Chapel on the busy West Coast main line.

The viaduct is no longer ‘as it was’, as in recent years fans from across the world have made the pilgrimage to the 23-arch viaduct and marked their names into the bricks, where fans believe Harry Styles spent time in his youth.

Network Rail has carried out some changes at the viaduct, installing a wall at the site. The new wall, made with blank panels, will protect the ‘golden’ bricks from potential, well-meaning damage, offering an alternative place for fans to leave messages to Harry.

Network Rail is urging “Harries” to leave their messages on the new wall, rather than on the viaduct, which may sustain long-term damage if the artwork continues at its current rate.

Rob Stephens, Network Rail’s principal route engineer said: “Twemlow viaduct is not only a historic railway structure that transports important passenger and freight services on the West Coast main line, but it also attracts people travelling far and wide to see it in person.

“We understand how much the viaduct means to Harry Styles fans, but unfortunately some visitors are writing messages on its brickwork.

“To preserve the viaduct’s historic status and not spoil anyone’s fun, we have fitted an alternative wall to allow ‘Harries’ to continue to leave their messages of love and support.” 

 

Peter Whiers, chair of Holmes Chapel Partnership, said: “We are delighted to see Network Rail recognise the attraction that Twemlow Viaduct has become by installing a new blank canvas that allows Harry Styles fans to express themselves creatively when visiting.

“This new wall is an important next step in both protecting the heritage of Twemlow Viaduct and continuing to raise the profile of Holmes Chapel on the tourist map for Cheshire.

“We are excited to see how fans react and take ownership of the wall over the coming weeks, while ensuring the viaduct remains a cherished landmark for future generations.”