Network Rail is investing EUR 5.3 million to help protect the Cumbrian coastline from climate change by upgrading the Eskmeals viaduct. The multi-million-pound project will see the replacement of the hardwood beams with a material that will double their life expectancy from 25 to 50 years, improve the structure of the track, and make it more robust. They can be recycled or reused at the end of their life.
In the long term, they will improve passenger experience by reducing the need for maintenance. Climate change means that more intense storms, heavier rainfall, and rising sea levels will put more pressure on the viaduct. 190 new engineered timber girders will be brought in by rail to minimize disruption and the 160 existing girders will be recycled.
“This £4.5 million project to replace the timbers of Eskmeals viaduct will make journeys more reliable for years to come. Using synthetic materials instead of wood means there is an increased life expectancy, reduced maintenance costs for Network Rail and reduced disruption for passengers and freight operators,” commented Jonny Rayson, Network Rail’s works delivery manager.
