A £300,000 project to refurbish the Allan Water Viaduct in Dunblane has been started by Network Rail.
The bridge, which carries rail traffic between Dunblane and Perth, is an important part of the rail infrastructure and a well-known local landmark.
The work, which is being undertaken by contractor AMCO, will be complete by November and includes strengthening joins, repairing minor cracks or fractures, applying sealants and waterproof resins and removing vegetation from the bridge masonry.
All metal work on the bridge, stanchions and parapet handrails will be repaired and painted and fencing adjacent to the bridge will be replaced and repaired, as required.
An important element of the work is the removal of trees and other vegetation overhanging the banks of the river within 10 metres either side of the bridge, to prevent the accumulation of debris, which can lead to a build up of pressure on the bridge arches, and to reduce the possibility that it will eventually damage the structure.
Scaffolding is being built to access all areas and all levels of the bridge, which will also allow a full survey to be undertaken.
As well as identifying additional elements of deterioration which can be remedied easily and efficiently in this programme of works, this survey of the entire exterior of the bridge will locate any areas of deterioration and generate a full and comprehensive analysis of the structure’s integrity.
Michael McArthur, scheme project manager for Network Rail, said: “The work at Allan Water Viaduct is part of a rolling programme of repair and investigation that we undertake on all of our bridges.
“As well as improving the visual appearance, which is always welcomed by the local community, extensive access allows us to carry out a thorough survey which gives a full picture of the conditionof the bridge, informing future maintenance plans and what work we may have to do and when.”