To reduce the impact on rail services, the community, and the local economy, the final stage in the refurbishment of Barmouth Bridge is to be carried out in stages over the next two years.
The work was originally planned to take place this autumn in a single phase, but Network Rail has confirmed the Grade II* listed viaduct will remain open during the October half term and Christmas period.
As well as upgrading the metallic parts of the bridge and laying new track, additional repairs will be carried out to strengthen the north abutments of the bridge and upgrade more of the bridge's timber elements.
These repairs were not envisaged in the original restoration plan. However, whilst engineers carrying out phases one and two of the work they found the bridge to be in a much-worse condition than originally thought.
During the repairs of the bridge, Network Rail and contractors, Alun Griffiths are replacing the timber and metallic elements on a like-for-like basis so that the viaduct's magnificent appearance is maintained. Plans to upgrade the bridge were developed over several years, with Network Rail working closely with Cadw, Gwynedd County Council, Transport for Wales, and other interested parties.
Nick Millington, interim route director for Network Rail Wales and the Borders said: “We know how important Barmouth Viaduct is for passengers and communities along the Cambrian Coast and this once-in-a-lifetime restoration will protect it for future generations.
“Undertaking additional repairs on top of upgrading the metallic elements will ensure this vital rail link will remain safe for passengers, the local community, and tourists for many years to come.
“We've carefully planned our work to avoid the busy summer season when tourism in Barmouth and the local area is at its height. We've also decided to take two shorter closures of the line this autumn, which means we can reopen the railway for the school half term and the Christmas period.”
Colin Lea, Transport for Wales' Planning and Performance Director, said: “We're pleased to see Network Rail are safeguarding the future of the iconic viaduct at Barmouth and the wider Cambrian Coast route through substantial track and bridge works all along the line this Autumn. This investment sits alongside our own in transforming services throughout Wales and Borders, including brand new trains for the Cambrian Coast in the years to come.
“Services will be disrupted while the work takes place but, working closely with Network Rail, we have been able to agree to reopen the line for four weeks from mid-November – which was not possible during last Autumn's works. High-quality replacement bus services will operate in place of trains and it's important to check before you travel. You can do this on the TfW website www.tfw.wales, our social media channels or on the TfW app.”
