The North Yorkshire Moors Railway is to temporarily prop Bridge 42 to allow its 2026 season to begin.

Bridge 42 allows trains to travel over the River Murk Esk and requires propping to allow for trains to run over it without disruption.

A full repair programme will take place in 2026/27 and this will restore the bridge for the long term.

The NYMR season starts on the 28th March 2026.

A major appeal has been launched to cover costs of propping the bridge as well as complete the repairs needed. More information can be found on the NYMR website.

“Propping Bridge 42 is a carefully considered solution that keeps the bridge fully operational for the upcoming season. It also gives us the time needed to develop a detailed repair programme, which will be implemented over the winter months to secure the long-term safety and performance of this important structure. That said, propping does come with challenges due to the bridge’s location and access. The final cost of the project with propping and full repair works will be confirmed once we have received all final surveys and quotations—we are currently awaiting responses from five contractors.”

Phil Sash, Director of Civils at NYMR