The restoration of the Grade II-listed Smardale Gill Viaduct has now been completed.
Following 2023’s urgent repairs to prevent water infiltration causing further damage, the stonework has now been fully restored.
The work was carried out by Carlisle-based Story Contracting Ltd and a rope access team from Geo-Structural Ltd.
It was overseen by Northern Viaducts Trust’s advisors from Ramboll (project management and engineering), with the support of Thornton-Firkin (quantity surveying).
A team of ecologists from Flight Ecology were on-hand to ensure local wildlife was protected at every stage.
During the repairs, 130 stones were repaired or replaced, around 1,800m2 of existing stonework was re-pointed (equivalent to about half a football pitch), and 20m3 of lime grouting was applied to infill existing voids behind the stonework (about the size of a large furniture van).
The viaduct remained open throughout. The restoration of this iconic monument to Victorian engineering means it will continue to attract walkers and visitors for many more years to come.
Neil Cleeveley, chair of Northern Viaducts Trust, said: “I think it’s fair to say that some of us were sceptical that the work could be completed by the end of 2024, but I am delighted to say that, thanks to all concerned, we just about made it! Our contractors worked in all weathers to get us there.
“Major projects like this can’t happen without the support of grant making trusts. We are fortunate to have engaged the support of the Benny Walker Charitable Trust and the Railway Heritage Trust.
“Both were flexible and supportive funders who went ‘above and beyond’ to help us achieve our objective of a fully restored viaduct.
“I also want to thank all our trustees, past and present, whose hard work and dedication made it possible.”
