Network Rail engineers are starting £3.6 million worth of repairs at the historic Avon Viaduct near Linlithgow. The project, which began on August 3 and is due to be completed by May 2027, will protect the future of the 23-span listed structure and the railway it carries across the River Avon between West Lothian and Falkirk.
Scope of work
The viaduct will undergo a range of improvements as part of the project, including masonry repairs, steelwork repainting and structural strengthening works. Existing metal parapet handrails will also be replaced with glass reinforced polymer (GRP) parapets.
Heritage and environment
As a listed structure, the work has been carefully planned to respect the viaduct's heritage while addressing essential maintenance needs. Network Rail has worked closely with local authorities and environmental specialists as plans for the project have progressed. Ecological surveys have also been undertaken to identify and protect local wildlife, including nesting birds and bats, with appropriate mitigation measures being implemented where required.
Investment in Scotland's railway
This investment is part of Network Rail's ongoing programme to maintain and preserve Scotland's historic railway infrastructure, ensuring key assets continue to serve passengers and freight services for generations to come.
Allison Flanagan, project manager at Network Rail Scotland, said: "This is an important investment in one of Scotland's historic railway structures. The work will help ensure Avon Viaduct continues to play its role on the railway while preserving its character for future generations. As well as extending the life of the structure, the project will help protect an important part of the local landscape and railway heritage for years to come."
