The first stage of a £25m upgrade of Barmouth Bridge has been finished to protect it for future visitors and passengers.

The first phase of work was extended by 48 hours to allow more work to be carried out whilst passenger numbers are low due to the Welsh “firebreak” lockdown.

The restoration, once fully complete, will have seen 1,000 timber and metal elements replaced, which are currently decaying, as well as the entire length of track on the viaduct.

Bill Kelly, Network Rail’s route director for Wales and Borders, said: “The restoration of Barmouth Viaduct will help us protect our industrial heritage and make sure this vital transport link can continue to serve local people and visitors in the future.

“We have been planning this work for years, and I am delighted that the first stage of the upgrade has now been completed. A project of this scale is never without challenges, but more so this year and I am proud of our team for getting the work done safely, following Government guidelines, during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Thank you to our partners and the local community who have been really supportive of this project from the very beginning. There is more work to do of course, and we will be back next year to continue the £25m upgrade.”

James Price, Transport for Wales CEO, said: “I’m delighted that Network Rail is making great progress in its work to safeguard the future of this iconic structure and the Cambrian Coast Line. This investment sits alongside our own investment in transforming services throughout the Wales and Borders network, including brand new trains for the Cambrian Coast Line in the years to come.

“We’re working collaboratively to ensure minimal disruption for our passengers while work is ongoing. As our services will be affected, it’s important for anyone travelling on the Cambrian Line to check before you travel, in case of any changes to our timetables. You can do this on the TfW Rail website www.tfwrail.wales or the TfW app.”

Liz Saville Roberts MP for Dwyfor Meirionnydd said: “This substantial investment will safeguard Barmouth Viaduct for future generations, strengthening ties among communities along the Cambrian coast and serving as a vital tourism link.

“None of this would have been possible without effective cooperation between partner agencies and local stakeholders. I look forward to seeing how the work progresses.”

Dafydd-Elis Thomas MS for Dwyfor Meirionnydd said: ‘This key link bridge is a classic of railway architecture, with its original features designed for opening for sailing access, set in the magnificent marine and mountain scenery of the Mawddach Estuary.

“The major reconstruction is a brilliant contribution by builders Network Rail to celebrate the heritage of the Cambrian Coast Railway as well as to ensure its future access to its terminus of Pwllheli via the historic Afonwen Junction.

“As one who travelled the line on family holidays as a young boy, and campaigned for its retention, I am delighted to imagine a future when this bridge will form an essential link in a reconnected West Coast route in Wales.’”

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