Heritage railway launches appeal to preserve spectacular historic viaduct

The East Lancashire Railway line played a key part of the Industrial Revolution in Lancashire.

It opened to British steam locomotives in 1846, connecting people who lived in the industrial towns and villages which grew on the banks of the river Irwell and worked in the factories, mills, coal mines, and chemical works.

The line closed to passenger services in 1972 and reopened as a heritage railway in 1987, operating steam trains from Bolton Street Station in Bury along a 12.5-mile line between Heywood and Rawtenstall.

It hosts around 200,000 visitors annually and has become one of the leading visitor attractions in the north west, with  over 800 volunteers donating their free time to work in a huge variety of roles.

It was recently recognised with a TripAdvisor Travellers Choice Award for 2023.

Higher Woodhill Viaduct

One of the most picturesque spots on the East Lancashire Railway heritage line is the spectacular Higher Woodhill Viaduct in Burrs Country Park on the edge of Bury. It goes past the site of historic former Higher Woodhill Mill, a water-powered cotton-spinning factory close to the bank of the Irwell built in 1790.

There’s a good chance you’ll see a steam train going over it at the weekend, as the mill workers themselves must have witnessed, many years ago.

Preserving the infrastructure of the heritage line is just as important as the upkeep of the beautiful steam trains that carry passengers. Regular inspections are carried out on its structure and, while there are no question marks around its safety, repairs are required to allow for the continued level of use of steam and diesel trains.

The estimate for this work is £1.28million, with grants anticipated to cover the vast majority of these costs.

Community support

That’s why the railway is undertaking a vital community appeal in 2024. Maintenance work is required to the Higher Woodhill Viaduct to ensure it continues to deliver on the experience enjoyed by so many for the future. Incredibly, its last repairs were carried out in 1932.

To secure many of these grants from the government’s Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, the East Lancashire Railway must demonstrate that it has the support of the community.

That’s why the railway is calling on the tens of thousands of visitors who enjoy riding on its trains all year round to show how much they care via an online appeal.

Preserved history

“As well as our trains, the track, the signals, the tunnels and bridges are all part of the immaculately preserved history that our visitors love so much,” said East Lancashire Railway chairman, Mike Kelly.

“It is right that the trains get most of the attention, but in truth they’re only part of the overall picture. The viaduct is one section of the line that people remember fondly from their visits to the railway.

“At this vital time, we need as many people as possible to show us their support. We have an online fundraiser where every single pound donated will make a difference. Added to that, every visitor’s comment about the beauty, history and authenticity of the railway will also support the case for this restoration project.”

How you can help

The East Lancashire Railway has always relied on the help of visitors, the local community and generous individuals to preserve its history and heritage.

To support its latest campaign for Higher Woodhill Viaduct go to www.justgiving.com/campaign/supportourviaduct. Any help you can give is always greatly appreciated.

To get involved and donate, or to share comments of support please email [email protected]

Find out more about ELR at https://www.elrps.co.uk/.