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News & Media > Rail Services

01:09:2010

Vital revamp for Arnside viaduct

May Gurney has been appointed by Network Rail as principal contractor to carry out essential work to prepare Arnside viaduct for the 21st Century.

Originally constructed in 1856, Arnside viaduct is a 51 span structure carrying the Carnforth and Whitehaven line over the estuary of the River Kent. The structure has suffered deterioration over the years, resulting in the bridge’s load capacity being reduced and a speed restriction being enforced.

May Gurney will be working with Network Rail to replace the entire deck of the viaduct to return the structure to its former condition and reinstate full line speed. This will reduce major maintenance in the future and improve journey times for passengers and freight users.

John Wilkinson, managing director of May Gurney Rail Services, said: “May Gurney specialises in difficult rail bridges. This 500m long structure will provide us with a great challenge and we look forward to working with the local community and Network Rail in improving this asset.”

Owing to the large scale and nature of the deck replacement works a full closure of the line will be necessary, with the scheme being completed in a 16-week period between March and July 2011.

Stuart Middleton, Network Rail area general manager, said: “Britain relies on rail so investment in the future of this line is vital.

“The upgrade will not only see major structural improvements to the viaduct but also bring more benefits to passengers in the way of a smoother, quieter and faster ride.”