THE Grade II listed Chippenham railway arches are undergoing major repairs as part of Network Rail’s Railway Upgrade Plan.
The viaduct, where New Road meets Marshfield Road, is one of the town’s best-known landmarks and has been partly fenced while work is underway.
A spokesman from Network Rail said: “The natural deterioration of the Bath stonework and original brick construction is such that some parts of the structure are crumbling, which in some instances has required the closure of adjacent roads and footpaths. These works will address those areas that are most in need of repair.”
The work, which will be finish in spring, includes the removal of vegetation, the replacement or repair of damaged bricks and Bath stone, and the repair of cracks through the structure.
The nine-arch viaduct, which has limestone on the north side and brick on the south, was built in 1841 to carry Brunel’s Great Western Railway over the town.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here