The stunning Grade II listed Barmouth Viaduct which sees the rail and footbridge cross has now reopened to railway passengers and pedestrians as Network Rail gets set to complete the final metallic upgrade work during 2023.
Network Rail and its contractor Alun Griffiths have already undertaken an array of vital upgrades for the viaduct during 2022 as part of the structure's largest and most progressive refurbishment ever.
Two four-week closures have taken place both in autumn and winter and have seen teams work around the clock in order to replace and strengthen timber beams, foundation support structures or piles as well as the metallic straps which hold the viaduct together.
Network Rail was able to also complete an upgrade of a kilometre of track at Tywyn station which is close to the viaduct thanks to the rail closure which also provided an opportunity to carry out the refurbishment of Barmouth Stations' canopy.
Planning for the work was specifically organised so it took place outside of the peak tourist season in summer which also meant less disruption for locals and supporting tourism and the local community further as the viaduct was able to reopen for the October half term.
The viaduct reopened on Saturday the 10th of December in order for both locals and tourists to make the most of the impressive wooden structure in its extremely beautiful surroundings during the festive period.
Nick Millington, interim route director at Network Rail Wales and Borders, said: “We'd like to thank the local community for bearing with us this autumn and winter as we carried out the latest stage of this essential restoration project.
“We'll be returning in 2023 to replace the metallic elements of the bridge, which will secure the future of this important rail link for many years to come.”
