Network Rail has released before and after footage of Gauxholme Viaduct in Todmorden after its restoration was completed.
Gauxholme Railway Viaduct is 181-years-old and is in Todmorden and runs over the Rochdale canal.
The viaduct was designed by George Stephenson.
Now, after the restoration, all of the scaffolding has been removed by Network Rail and the results of the work can be seen.
The Viaduct was built in the 1840s and the restoration work completed is part of the ‘Great North Rail Project', costing £3.7m.
On Thursday 27th May 2021 the before and after the video was released.
The viaduct was deep cleaned, repainted, and was strengthened.
As well as the viaduct works, a nearby bridge (Taylors Bridge) near Todmorden station was completely reconstructed.
Kathryn Berry, scheme project manager for Network Rail, said: “It's extremely satisfying to finally unwrap this iconic structure from the scaffolding and reveal Gauxholme viaduct once again in all its Victorian glory. Along with the work to Taylors bridge, this is a major investment for Todmorden to improve railway journeys in the Calder Valley.
“We have been working closely with Calderdale Council throughout and thank passengers, road users and the local community for their patience while we carried out this essential work.”
Tony Baxter, regional director at Northern, said: “It's fantastic that such an important piece of local railway heritage will continue to serve Northern's customers. The repair and renovation work will give our customers in the Calder Valley better journeys for years to come.”
Cllr Jane Scullion, Calderdale Council's cabinet member for regeneration and strategy, said: “It's great news that work to Gauxholme viaduct is now complete with this historic structure restored to its former glory.
“We've supported Network Rail throughout the project and we were pleased to provide advice to ensure the works were in keeping with the special industrial and architectural character of the bridge. The finished work looks really impressive and is a distinctive landmark along the Calder Valley line.”
Craig Whittaker, MP for Calder Valley, said: “I am delighted that restoration work on the Grade II listed Gauxholme viaduct in Todmorden has now been completed to its former glory, something which George Stephenson would be very proud of. I am incredibly grateful to the team who have completed the work to a high standard. Even in the rain , the structure now looks magnificent. I am equally delighted that the Taylors Bridge has been completely reconstructed.”
The path next to the canal has now also fully reopened to pedestrians.
To read more about how Network Rail looks after heritage structures, visit: www.networkrail.co.uk/who-we-are/our-history/working-with-railway-heritage/
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Wow that must of been ever so much hardwork, in restoring and newly strengthening this Historic 181 year old Yorkshire Railway Structure.
That so-called Gauxholme Viaduct (in Todmorden, West Yorkshire) of whom carries the Calder Valley Mainline across the Canal (or is it A River?), is one of the Greatest & most Historic Structures I’ve ever come across.