The iconic Stockport Viaduct's £1m restoration project is on track to be completed by March, with the M60 set for 13 nights of closures. Network Rail has been working on the grade II-listed structure since last year, tackling tasks such as vegetation clearance, graffiti removal, and repairs to its 11 million bricks.
With 23 of the viaduct's 26 arches already restored, engineers are preparing to abseil down the 550-metre long, 34-metre high viaduct to complete the work. This will necessitate overnight closures on the M60 from February 17 to March 2, between junctions J27 and J1.
Diversion routes will be in place, and signage will guide motorists during the closures. The viaduct, constructed in 1840, is a vital rail link carrying nearly 400 trains daily between Manchester Piccadilly and the West Coast Main Line.
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Concerns about the viaduct's condition emerged at the end of 2023, with a Network Rail planning application highlighting potential load-bearing capacity issues due to 'multiple defects'. Additionally, there were warnings that spalling brickwork could pose safety risks to people and property below.
Councillor Grace Baynham of Stockport Council expressed support for the improvements to this "iconic" and "much loved" town landmark, reports .
"With the £1billion regeneration of our town centre continuing apace, it's even more important that our historical, listed, landmarks look their absolute best," she added. "I'm sure our residents and visitors have seen the improvement in the areas that have already been completed.
"We appreciate everyone's patience while this vital final section of the work is completed."
Stockport MP Navendu Mishra said: "I am delighted that Stockport Viaduct is being cleaned and repaired to its former glory. I have raised concerns in Parliament about the condition of the Viaduct and called for funding to cover cleaning, maintenance and repair costs to this impressive and essential infrastructure.
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"I congratulate Network Rail for recognising and embarking on this huge revamp project, which will benefit people who live, work and travel through Stockport."
Rob Stephens, Network Rail's principal route engineer for the North West route, said: "Stockport Viaduct is an important piece of cultural heritage for the railway and the Stockport community.
"The final stage of the project will take place this February, as we want to make sure the nighttime road closure causes as little inconvenience as possible for the people of Stockport."
"The recent work means the overall appearance of the viaduct is much improved, but it also reduces the risk of damage caused by overgrown vegetation and graffiti.
"Managing plant growth on viaducts such as this is important in maintaining train performance as trees and shrubs can obscure signals and interfere with the overhead lines that power trains."
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