Viaduct designed by George Stephenson in £3.7m upgrade
AN 180-YEAR-OLD viaduct designed by railway pioneer George Stephenson is undergoing a multi-million-pound restoration to improve passenger journeys and secure its future for generations to come.
The £3.7m Great North Rail Project involves the 1840-built Grade II-listed Gauxholme viaduct near Todmorden being gritblasted to its bare metal for structural repairs.
The important piece of railway heritage, which spans the Rochdale Canal, will then be deep cleaned and repainted back to its Victorian splendour.
Taylor’s bridge, which carries the railway over Rose Bank Road near Todmorden station, will also be completely reconstructed, with two disused sections permanently removed as part of the same investment.
Both projects mean the railway through Todmorden will be entirely closed from Saturday October 24 to Sunday November 1.
Passengers are being advised to expect changes to their journeys and check with National Rail in the coming weeks for more information when timetables are finalised.
Kathryn Berry, scheme project manager for Network Rail, said: “This work to restore the impressive Gauxholme viaduct and renew Taylor’s bridge is essential to improve passenger journeys through Todmorden.
“The Great North Rail Project investment will secure this important piece of railway heritage for generations to come.
“We have been working closely with Calderdale Council on our plans and thank passengers, road users and the local community in advance for their patience while we deliver this essential work.”
To check the latest news on train times, visit www.nationalrail.co.uk.