LIGHTS FANTASTIC...

Mon 22nd February 2010 3.25PM

Historic viaduct now seen in its full glory STOCKPORT’S historic rail viaduct can been seen in its full glory after a team of engineers installed a new lighting system. Stockport Council teams worked throughout the night to replace the lighting units in the less accessible areas, including the arches over the River Mersey and M60 Motorway. To complete the works the Council worked closely with Network Rail and the Highways Agency to gain special access to the lights, which required the fearless teams to abseil down from the top of the viaduct. Due to the extent of the job, the Council replaced the whole lighting units instead of the broken lamps to ensure that the viaduct is shown in its full glory.

Councillor David White, Executive Member for Transportation, said: “Replacing the lights on the viaduct is a major task but something which we consider an important one as it marks the gateway to Stockport. “The job isn’t easy but it means that the viaduct can once again be viewed in its full splendour. It also provides extra security for motorists and pedestrians during the darker nights.” Opened in 1842, the 33.8m (111 ft) high structure is one of Western Europe’s biggest brick structure and represents a major feat of Victorian engineering.

Eleven million bricks were used in its construction. The viaduct was widened from two to four tracks between 1887-89 and underwent a facelift in 1989 in a £3m restoration project. It is part of a main line service carrying passengers to destinations across the UK.