Invitation to Tender for the Refurbishment of the Higher Woodhill Viaduct

Higher Woodhill Viaduct carries the East Lancashire Railway over the River Irwell and runs north to south. The structure consists of seven spans. - The outer two spans to the north and two to the south are masonry arches - The three central spans (spans 3, 4 & 5) each comprise 4 No. riveted plate girders spanning between masonry piers. Spans 3, 4 and 5 steel spans are approximately 13.5m with the piers set at a skew of 26 degrees. Span 3 of the bridge is over recreational ground, whilst spans 4 & 5 are over the River Irwell. A number of elements of the structure have been identified as being in poor condition and requiring remedial works. As such, a refurbishment scheme is to be undertaken to extend the serviceable life of the viaduct.