Extensive restoration and repair work has been undertaken at Wheatley Viaduct, which has stood over the town for 130 years.
The condition of the 100 feet tall structure had deteriorated over time and a full programme of works, including refurbishment and waterproofing, were needed to keep it in good condition.
In a statement, HRE engineer Muhammad Musa said: “Wheatley is an important physical reminder of Halifax’s railway history, and we’re delighted that the work needed has now been completed.
“Following one of our regular examinations it was clear the viaduct had numerous issues and our contractors have worked flat out since the end of last year to ensure it remains safe and in good order for generations to come.”
Dave Martin, senior project manager at contractor AmcoGiffen added: “This was a big project, with more than 2000m of repointing completed, 100m of fractures repaired and more than 200 anchors installed. We also stripped, waterproofed and reinstated 1600 square metres of the deck.
“The viaduct is a big part of the local skyline so we’re proud that we’ve been able to secure its future for everyone to enjoy.”
Built for the Halifax High Level Railway in 1844, Wheatley Viaduct measures around 600 feet long with a slight curve. It was mainly used to transport coal, with the last goods train running in 1960.
The line started from Holmfield, near Ovenden, running across Wheatley Valley on the Wheatley Viaduct, travelling on to St Paul’s Station at Queens Road.
The viaduct has been closed to the public since the 1960s for safety but has been accessed by trespassers and vandalised over the years.
Ecologists carried out bat surveys in advance of the repair works to identify if bats are using the structure and to put in place measures to work around them and stop them entering the structure during the works. Four bat boxes were installed as part of the work and 95 bat crevices were left open for bats to use during the hibernation season.
Other renovation work completed in August included replacing areas of water damaged brickwork and masonry from the arches and piers; and re-bedding displaced or loose masonry and replacing replace missing masonry.
The Historical Railways Estate (HRE) is a collection of over 3100 structures and assets which were once part of Britain's rail network.
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