The 51-span, 500m-long structure carries the Carnforth and Whitehaven line over the estuary of the River Kent. It had suffered deterioration over the years, resulting in the bridge’s load capacity being reduced and a speed restriction being enforced.
May Gurney carried out the work for Network Rail. Working on one line at a time, the railway tracks were removed to expose the viaduct decks, which were cut into sections, lifted out by specialist road/rail machines and taken away to a compound.
Gantry cranes were then erected. They moved along the viaduct lifting the new deck units into position before base plates were bolted in place to take the new continuously welded track.
Having completed the line towards Barrow, the process was reversed to renew the viaduct in the Carnforth and Lancaster direction.
The type of base plates and track used mean a quieter, smoother ride for passengers and less maintenance for both Network Rail and train operators.
Network Rail’s route director Jo Kaye said that passengers are now reaping the benefits of the work. “The first thing regular passengers will notice is how quiet the ride is over the viaduct compared with before. We have taken away the old jointed track and replaced it with continuous rails. Not only is this quieter but it is also makes the ride over the viaduct a lot smoother. In due course we will be doubling the speed of trains over the viaduct which could lead to reduced journey times in future timetables."
