Network Rail submits plans for Stockport viaduct repairs

Network Rail has submitting a planning application to carry out essential structural repairs to Stockport viaduct.

The historic landmark is one of the busiest sections of the railway in the UK, carrying the West Coast Mainline and other local services across the River Mersey before their approach to Manchester Piccadilly. Built in two phases, the first completing in 1840, with an expansion to accommodate two additional track completing in 1889, Network Rail is now proposing a number of structural repairs to the viaduct to ensure its continued safe use for high volumes of rail traffic.

In addition to structural repairs, Network Rail also plan to remove vegetation growing from the brickworks, remove graffiti and restore the appearance of the viaduct, which has become an iconic part of the Stockport skyline. Should Stockport Council give permission for work to go ahead, it is anticipated to commence during 2024.

Structural work on the viaduct also come alongside work on the Greek Street bridge over the railway line on the southern approach to Stockport station, as well as delivery of a new transport interchange opening later this year.

Plans for repairing the viaduct come alongside the reveal in December 2023 of Greater Manchester’s plans for boosting Stockport’s transport credentials as the southern gateway for arrivals into the city-region. During a meeting of local leaders, it was confirmed Stockport Railway Station, Greater Manchester’s third busiest, would be included in Network Rail and TfGM’s priority stations work. Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, also confirmed work was underway to realise ambitions for a Metrolink extension into the town centre.