Latest news with #AmcoGiffen
The Herald Scotland
01-05-2025
- General
- The Herald Scotland
Iconic viaduct protected for generations to come
Network Rail, along with principal contractor AmcoGiffen, assessed the condition of the viaduct. Concrete repairs were carried out across the structure sympathetically, taking care to replicate its heritage appearance. New safety handrails for staff working at height were installed, along with renewing ballast retention systems at the ends of the structure. Engineers also worked in the River Finnan, protecting the piers from erosion caused by the fast-flowing river. Meanwhile, specially trained rope access technicians descended from the viaduct, reaching and restoring areas that would otherwise be inaccessible. READ MORE: Harry Potter viaduct to undergo £3.4 million in repair work Fencing to prevent Harry Potter fans trespassing on viaduct Repairs begin to world-famous Harry Potter viaduct Laura Craig, Scheme Project Manager at Network Rail, said: 'This project was years in planning due to the complexity of navigating such a large-scale, historic structure. Our highly skilled team faced numerous challenges, from preserving the viaduct's original integrity to implementing modern engineering solutions. Every step of the process required meticulous attention to detail and a deep respect for its heritage. 'It's an honour to look after the Glenfinnan Viaduct, knowing how much it's loved all over the world. We're proud to see it standing strong and it's a testament to the dedication and hard work of everyone involved.' The Glenfinnan viaduct opened in 1901 and is the largest mass concrete viaduct in Scotland, spanning more than 1,000 feet. The build cost £18,904 at the time, which is around £2 million in today's money. Historic Environment Scotland has designated the structure as Category A, the highest level, meaning it's of significant architectural and historical interest. As part of its preservation, Network Rail refrains from cleaning off efflorescence marks from the rain as it drains through, ensuring the character of the structure remains. Ann MacSween, Head of Planning, Consents and Advice Services at Historic Environment Scotland, said: "We welcome Network Rail's investment into the careful repair of this iconic structure. 'Glenfinnan is the most impressive of several mass concrete railway viaducts and bridges along the West Highland Line, which was built 1897-1901. These bridges were mostly designed with an exposed concrete finish, rather than being faced in stone, and are the earliest railway bridges of this style in Scotland. "Over a century after it was first built, Glenfinnan Viaduct still stands strong today, in no small part due to Network Rail's excellent care." The viaduct is an icon of Scottish tourism, drawing thousands of visitors each year. Many pass over the arches aboard ScotRail trains, as well as the 'Hogwarts Express' Jacobite steam train operated by West Coast Railways. Countless more tourists make the trip to Glenfinnan to admire the views from the ground. James Shuttleworth, West Coast Railways' Commercial Manager, added: "Having run 'The Jacobite' for over three decades and celebrated its centenary in 2001, we truly appreciate the historic significance of the viaduct. The recent restoration work has further highlighted its importance, not only as a vital piece of railway heritage, but also as a beloved film star in Harry Potter, for which we proudly provided 'The Hogwarts Express." The restoration of the viaduct is part of a broader programme of work in the Glenfinnan area. A two-year pilot project enhanced the natural habitat by planting trees across approximately 200 hectares to protect, restore and expand rainforest and peatland habitats. Additionally, deer fencing has been installed at Ardmolich to safeguard the newly planted native woodlands from overgrazing. Network Rail is also investing £500,000 to renew over five kilometres of lineside fencing near the viaduct. The project aims to replace life-expired boundary fencing, ensuring the track remains safely separated from public areas.
The National
25-04-2025
- General
- The National
Network Rail finishes Glenfinnan Viaduct renovation work
A team of specialist engineers carried out the £3.4 million extensive maintenance programme in a bid to safeguard the iconic Scottish landmark for future generations to come. The Glenfinnan Viaduct, located in the Highlands, was made famous worldwide by its appearance in the Harry Potter films. Network Rail, along with AmcoGiffen, carried out repairs to the concrete on the structure, taking care to replicate its iconic appearance. READ MORE: Nigel Farage will be delighted with free publicity from John Swinney New safety handrails for staff working at height were installed, along with renewing ballast retention systems, the stone material under the track that helps with stability and drainage, at the ends of the structure. Laura Craig, scheme project manager at Network Rail, said the team of specialist engineers faced numerous challenges throughout the project but were able to carry out the important restoration work. She said: 'This project was years in planning due to the complexity of navigating such a large-scale, historic structure. 'Our highly skilled team faced numerous challenges, from preserving the viaduct's original integrity to implementing modern engineering solutions. Every step of the process required meticulous attention to detail and a deep respect for its heritage. 'It's an honour to look after the Glenfinnan Viaduct, knowing how much it's loved all over the world. We're proud to see it standing strong and it's a testament to the dedication and hard work of everyone involved.' Engineers also worked in the River Finnan, protecting the piers from erosion caused by the fast-flowing river. Meanwhile, specially trained rope access technicians descended from the viaduct, reaching and restoring areas that would otherwise be inaccessible. (Image: Network Rail) The Glenfinnan Viaduct opened in 1901 and is the largest mass concrete viaduct in Scotland, spanning more than 1000 feet. It cost £18,904 at the time to build, which is around £2m in today's money. Historic Environment Scotland (HES) have designated the structure as Category A, meaning it's of significant architectural and historical interest. Ann MacSween, head of Planning, Consents and Advice Services at HES, said the Glenfinnan viaduct is still 'standing strong' today due to the excellent care it has received over the years. She said: "We welcome Network Rail's investment into the careful repair of this iconic structure. 'Glenfinnan is the most impressive of several mass concrete railway viaducts and bridges along the West Highland Line, which was built 1897-1901. 'These bridges were mostly designed with an exposed concrete finish, rather than being faced in stone, and are the earliest railway bridges of this style in Scotland. 'Over a century after it was first built, Glenfinnan Viaduct still stands strong today, in no small part due to Network Rail's excellent care.'
