Snippet Detail
In 2015 the viaduct's masonry was renovated as part of the never-ending cycle of inspection and maintenance. This project included:
- the partial replacement of some of the arch ring brickwork (to address 'spalling' that had reached a depth of up to 190mm);
- the re-pointing of open joints in the spandrel walls (to prevent further deterioration); and
- a series of stitch repairs (to address cracking and joint fractures).
When the Eden Brows landslip forced the closure of the north end of the S&CR in 2016, Network Rail brought-forward a second phase of major renovation work on the viaduct. As part of this 12 week, £1.3 million project:
- metal guard rails were fitted along the top of the parapet walls (to provide a safer working environment for trackside workers);
- a waterproof membrane was laid along the full length of the deck (to prevent water ingress);
- downpipes were installed (to direct water away from the structure); and
- 136 pre-cast concrete slab units were installed to contain the ballast. The slabs were stitched together with concrete poured in situ and tied into the existing spandrels to counter the lateral forces exerted by passing trains. (These forces had been causing some movement in the structural masonry, particularly on the outside of the curve.)
Sources: