The Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway‘s steel rail-over bridge no. 32 extends over the road between Gretton and Gotherington and is in the process of carrying out a substantial repair project which is now nearing its end.

In order to carry out the vital work in a safe manner the road has been closed, during this time Gloucestershire County Council has completed road resurfacing work, making the most of the closure.

The heritage railway has many steel bridges all aged 100 years+ to look after and Bridge 32’s repair has been funding thanks to funding from the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway Trust. The work is being carried out by civil engineers Walsh Construction, who have completed repair work to a number of the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway’s bridges and earthworks over recent years.

Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway Finance Director, Richard Winstanley, said:

“These steel bridges are really beginning to show their age.  This one is suffering leaking decks following failure of the waterproofing which has led to corrosion.  In addition, the ballast walls at the deck ends are being rebuilt while there are other brickwork repairs too.  The bridge is also being shot-blasted back to bare metal, rust-proofed and completely repainted.

“When complete, the bridge will be a much more attractive feature for drivers passing beneath it and it should last perhaps another 100 years.”

The 3rd of January saw work get underway with the track being lifted over the bridge ahead of the contractor’s work commencing. The project is set to complete ahead of rail services starting on the 4th of March 2023.

Mr Winstanley also said: “The project is on schedule and I’m impressed with the high standard of the work,”

“I would like to take this opportunity to firstly, apologise for the long diversions that drivers are having to take because of the road closure and secondly, express my appreciation for the generous support of the Trust, which has helped fund a number of projects on the railway.”

“The generosity of the public in supporting the railway both by travelling and contributing to the Trust means that we can undertake such works to a very high standard.  Visitors can be assured that the railway will operate to the highest safety standards both today and for future generations to enjoy.”

The railway will also see further work completed through its winter break including:

• Track replacement
• Painting and repair of stations and other structures
• Locomotive and carriage maintenance
• Substantial drainage and landscape management work will allow water to run freely across the railway from the Cotswold hills to the rivers Severn and Avon.

Continuing, Mr Winstanley, said: “Much of this work is carried out by our skilled volunteers.  The railway is extremely fortunate that it is supported by around 850 volunteers in a wide range of roles, many of whom are happy to be out in all weathers to undertake this vital but rewarding work.

“Many of our visitors have little idea of what goes on behind the scenes to ensure they enjoy their journey through the Cotswolds on our wonderful heritage railway.”

The Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway will see train services resume on the weekend of the 4th of March 2023. The railway has plenty planned for the 2023 season including running race trains for Classic Hospitality for the Cheltenham Festival and an array of special events such as its Cotswold Festival of Steam which will take place from the 12th to the 14th of May.

To find out more about the railway or to book tickets, please visit: www.gwsr.com