Railway heritage award unveiled at Crook O’ Lune bridge

A prestigious national award for the restoration of the historic bridge at the Crook O'Lune has been marked with a plaque.

Lancashire County Council's £1m repairs to the east viaduct, completed in December 2013, were honoured with the Restoration Award at the National Railway Heritage Awards last year.

The Grade II listed bridge, which once supported the Lancaster to Wennington railway line, needed extensive repairs after an inspection revealed problems with the timber beams supporting the deck.

The disused line is a popular footpath and cycleway along the River Lune Millennium Park and attracts 250,000 visitors a year to an area of natural beauty and wildlife.

John Ellis, chairman of the National Railway Heritage Awards, unveiled the plaque at a ceremony on Monday.

County Councillor John Fillis, cabinet member for highways and transport, said: "This award is a tribute to the careful planning and expertise that went into restoring this historic bridge in a way that I'm sure the original craftsmen would have admired.

"I'd like to commend our staff and the contractors for their excellent work which has been recognised as among the best in the country."

County Councillor Marcus Johnstone, cabinet member for environment, planning and cultural services, added: "The Crook O'Lune is one of the most beautiful spots in Lancashire and it's a privilege to be able to ensure it will give pleasure to future generations of cyclists and walkers.

"The restoration work has not only provided much-needed repairs, but has enhanced the surrounding area to make it even more attractive for local people and tourists alike."

A new landscaped area, featuring benches and large wooden otter sculptures, has also been created on the riverbank below the bridge.

Workmen met an unusual delay when working on the bridge. Tools were downed for a few weeks when nesting birds were discovered below the bridge deck. The blue tit and jackdaw chicks were given time to mature and fly the nest before work resumed.

Lancashire County Council worked closely with contractors Casey, Kirk Scaffolding, Sarum, Hankinson, Harrison and Wisewood on the Crook O'Lune bridge restoration.

Notes for Editors:

Pic_2: John Ellis, Chairman of the National Railway Heritage Awards, unveils the plaque with staff from Lancashire County Council, and contractors Casey, Kirk Scaffolding and Harrison.

For further information please contact: Mike Warren on 01772 533537
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