NETWORK Rail and Story have commenced work on a £3.5 million project to refurbish Awe Viaduct.
The crossing is a three-span wrought iron viaduct, built in 1879, that carries the Crianlarich-Oban railway line over the River Awe south of Taynuilt.
The seven-month project will see engineers replace the existing timber deck, remove old paint, and carry out repairs to the metallic parts of the structure as well as repainting them to prevent rusting.
To ensure safe access for the project team and the environment, including the river below, the structure will be scaffolded and encapsulated during works.
Owen Ferry, project manager at Network Rail, said, “This significant investment not only improves the structure’s look but will help extend its lifespan as work on this scale won’t be required for at least another 25 years. The old paint will be removed by ‘blasting’ and a new three coat paint system applied – these works can be carried out dayshift. However, some of the metal repairs can only be carried out when no trains are running, due to safety reasons.
“We appreciate the viaduct sits in a much-loved part of the world and we thank neighbours and visitors for their understanding while we complete these crucial works.”
