Construction View Issue 39 2021 | Page 90

90 pleased that it is benefitting from a portion of the £ 2 billion UK Government investment in the Wales and Borders network to preserve and upgrade it . The upgrades by Network Rail will secure the important link between Machynlleth and Pwllheli and protect a popular part of the Wales coastal route .
“ Together with the £ 8.5 billion investment in Great Western Rail ’ s Intercity Express trains and electrification between London Paddington and south Wales , and upgrades to North Wales railway lines , the UK Government is delivering improvements in rail infrastructure and improving journeys for passengers in every part of Wales .”
Ken Skates , Minister for Economy , Transport and North Wales , said : “ I have seen for myself how important the viaduct is to the community so this is welcome investment . As well as being an important transport link it is historically significant infrastructure , and I look forward to seeing these plans taken forward .”
“ This substantial investment will safeguard Barmouth Viaduct for future generations , strengthening ties among communities along the Cambrian coast and serving as a vital tourism link .
“ None of this would have been possible without effective cooperation between partner agencies and local stakeholders . I look forward to seeing how the work progresses .”
To reduce the impact of the work , it has been carefully planned to take place over three years , with three shorter full closures of the 19th century viaduct , rather than one longer full closure . Network Rail has adapted the plans to make sure work can be delivered safely in line with Government guidance .
James Price , Transport for Wales CEO , said : “ I ’ m delighted that Network Rail are making this major investment in safeguarding the future of this iconic structure and the Cambrian Coast Line . This investment sits alongside our own investment in transforming services throughout the Wales and Borders network , including brand new trains and extra services for the Cambrian Coast Line in the years to come .
“ We ’ re working collaboratively to ensure minimal disruption for our passengers while work takes place . As our services will be affected , it ’ s important for anyone travelling on the Cambrian Line to check before you travel , in case of any changes to our timetables . You can do this on the TfW Rail website www . tfwrail . wales or the TfW app .”
Liz Saville Roberts MP said : “ I am pleased Network Rail has set-out a firm timetable to restore this iconic structure , the only major timber railway bridge that is still in use today .
Scaffolding solutions for any project From our base in Staffordshire , we have the resources and expertise to take on projects anywhere in the UK and offer a range of services .
We are commencing works on Barmouth Viaduct
For general enquires please contact us on info @ attridge-scaffolding . co . uk For quotations , please send your project details to estimating @ attridge-scaffolding . co . uk www . attridge-scaffolding . co . uk www . constructionviewonline . co . uk