Urgent repair work is set to begin on the Higher Woodhill Viaduct, a picturesque landmark on the East Lancashire Railway, thanks to a £1.3 million grant.
One of the most picturesque spots on the East Lancashire Railway has been preserved for future generations to enjoy. The Bury-based heritage railway has been awarded more than £1.3million in grants to carry out urgent repair work to the Higher Woodhill Viaduct, on the edge of Burrs Country Park. The stunning viaduct in the Irwell Valley goes past the site of the former Higher Woodhill Mill. Amazingly, its last repairs were carried out in 1932.
Thanks to this important grant, essential maintenance works are due to start on the structure in the spring. The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government Community Ownership Fund awarded East Lancashire Railway just more than £1m towards the work, with three local authorities from Bury, Rochdale and Rossendale putting in a further £276,000 in match funding and supporters of the railway - members of the public and local businesses - adding a few thousand pounds more. Regular inspections are carried out on the structure and while there are no question marks around its current safety, it was flagged earlier in 2024 that long-term repairs were required to allow for the continued level of use of steam and heritage diesel trains. News of the project funding has been warmly received by champions of the local community. James Frith, Labour MP for Bury North, said: “The news that the East Lancashire Railway has been successful in its Community Ownership Fund bid is a fantastic Christmas gift for our town. This vital funding will allow essential maintenance on the Woodhill Viaduct to keep the East Lancashire Railway running for years to come. “Since being elected, I have offered my full support to the team at the railway for this bid, raising it with ministers, and even Number 10, at every opportunity. The East Lancashire Railway is a special part of our town’s heritage and culture, and I know everyone in Bury will be pleased that with this funding the future of the railway is secure
Heritage Railway Viaduct Restoration Grant East Lancashire Railway
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