Network Rail begins £1.1m Orbiston Viaduct project

SPECIALIST engineers have commenced work on a £1.1 million project to future-proof Orbiston Viaduct in North Lanarkshire.

The Network Rail project will look to extend the lifespan of the structure whilst protecting it against weather damage.

Rod Hendry, construction manager at Network Rail, said, “Safety is at the heart of everything we do at Network Rail and the £1.1m investment we’re making in Orbiston Viaduct will protect it for years to come.

“While scour remains the leading cause of bridge failures in the last 100 years in the UK, the work we’re doing is vital to keeping passengers moving safely and reliably over the South Calder Water.

“We are very grateful to all rail users and the wider community for their patience while we carry out this vital work.”

The project will see material be removed from the bed and banks of the river around the viaduct to protect its foundations by diverting water away from the base of the bridge. Masonry repairs and ballast installation will also follow.