Rail refurbishment reinforces freight links for heavy loads

The twin viaducts at Chapel Milton near Chapel en le Frith are used to transport more than 25,000 tonnes of stone, cement and limestone every day from four quarries in the Peak District across the Black Brook Valley.

The viaduct, which has been described as a “mainstay of the success” of the country’s rail freight network, was opened in 1867 and has seen significant investment to ensure it can continue to link routes from London to St Pancras to and from Manchester and Sheffield. The work included significant strengthening work as well as track replacement and realignment, reinforcement of walls, installation of new waterproofing and drainage systems, and handrails and guardrails.

“Rail freight has a significant role to play in the movement of heavy goods nationwide,” says Alexandra Herdman, Senior Policy Manager at Logistics UK, “and it is encouraging to see the investment made by Network Rail to future proof our rail network. By enabling operators to move heavy loads by rail, this will free up valuable road space for other vehicles and assist the logistics industry in reducing its emissions as well, of course, as protecting this vital piece of Victorian infrastructure for future generations.”

Image c/o Network Rail