Media centre

Wednesday 5 Jan 2011

REVAMPING ARNSIDE VIADUCT - PUBLIC ROADSHOWS

Region & Route:

This spring Arnside viaduct is being revamped for the 21^st century. During January 2011 Network Rail will be hosting a series of public drop-in sessions, providing neighbours of the viaduct with the opportunity to talk to us about the essential improvement work being carried out.

Network Rail will be on the road on Tuesday 18 January at Victoria Hall in Grange-over-Sands and Wednesday 19 January at the Educational Institute in Arnside. Key project people from Network Rail, May Gurney, First TransPennine Express and Northern Rail will be available to answer any questions or discuss any concerns.

Stuart Middleton, area general manager at Network Rail said: “Investment in the future of the Furness line is vital. The upgrade will not only bring major structural improvements to the viaduct but will also bring more benefits to passengers in the way of a smoother, quieter and faster ride.

“With site set up beginning in the next few weeks we thought it would be a great opportunity to get out into the communities surrounding the viaduct and give them the chance to direct any questions they have about the project to us, face-to-face.”

Over the years the viaduct has suffered deterioration, resulting in the bridge’s load capacity being reduced and a speed restriction being enforced.

Working with May Gurney, Network Rail will replace the entire deck of the viaduct to return the structure to its former condition and reinstate full line speed, meaning less major maintenance in future and improving journeys for both passengers and freight users.

Preparation for the improvement work will begin on Friday 21 January. Owing to the large scale and nature of the deck replacement work a full closure of the line will be necessary, with the scheme being completed in one 16-week period between 28 March - 18 July 2011.